Diamond nanostructures and nanoparticles: Electrochemical properties and applications

Abstract

Macro-sized diamond films have been widely applied as the electrode for electrochemical and electroanalytical applications. Due to the non-uniform doping in diamond, boundary effects, and the varied ratios of graphite to diamond, only averaged electrochemical signals are detected over the full electrode. The studies of diamond electrochemistry at the nanoscale are thus highly required. In this chapter we overview recent progress and achievements about electrochemical properties and applications of diamond nanostructures and nanoparticles. After a brief introduction of the formation of these nanostructures and nanoparticles, electrochemical behavior of diamond nanostructures (e.g., diamond nanotexures, nanowires, networks, etc.) and nanoparticles (undoped, doped nanoparticles) in the presence/absence of redox probes is summarized. Their electroanalytical (e.g., electrochemical, biochemical sensing, etc.) and electrochemical (e.g., energy storage using capacitors and batteries, electrocatalysis, etc.) applications are shown. Diamond nanoelectrode array is introduced and highlighted as a promising tool to investigate diamond electrochemistry at the nanoscale as well.