Effect of ammonium-salt solutions on the surface properties of carbon fibers in electrochemical anodic oxidation

► Longitudinal grooves on the fiber surface became more well-defined and much deeper after surface treatment. ► The concentration of oxygen and nitrogen on the fiber surface increased after surface treatment. ► The intensity of oxidative reaction varied with the change of ammonium-salt solutions. ► The higher the concentration of OH− ions in the electrolytes, the violent the oxidative reaction happened.