METHOD FOR PRODUCTION OF CARBON ELECTRODE HAVING HIGH ELECTROCATALYTIC ACTIVITY FROM WASTE

The present invention refers to a procedure for obtaining a carbon electrode from acid cell wastes with extremely high electrocatalytic activity that can be used as cathode or anode for various applications such as electrochemistry, electroplating, electrolytic refining, etc. One of its most interesting applications is in the field of sensor electrodes. The process comprises the stages of: a) extraction of the carbon from the cell and then removing its covering; b) boiling in distilled water between 5 and 30 minutes; c) washing the electrode with detergent, preferably neutral; d) sanding and washing with boiling water and then with detergent until no residue is obtained; e) sonicating between 5 and 30 minutes in distilled water; f) subjecting the electrode to washing with petroleum ether or other highly nonpolar solvent; g) sonicating and washing with organic solvents from low to high polarity, ending with water and changing the water until clean water is obtained; h) boiling the electrode in a solution containing a strong oxidant and acid pH during 5 minutes to one hour; i) repeating the washing and sonication procedure if necessary; j) polishing in the conventional manner for its use; and k) if desired, it can be inserted in teflon or PVC to insulate part of the surface. The electric connection can be made by making an inner thread in the carbon.