Abstract: Composite electrodes are described herein, comprising a stainless steel substrate and silicon-containing nanostructures extending from the substrate, as well as processes for preparing such electrodes without requiring a catalyst by pre-treatment of the steel. At least a portion of the silicon-containing nanostructures are characterized by: being substantially devoid of a non-silicon catalyst material and/or a noble metal; and/or including along its length a metal constituent originating from the steel substrate; and/or including a metal silicide extending from the substrate and along at least a portion of its length; and/or being fused with at least one other silicon-containing nanostructure at a location removed from a surface of the substrate to form a sponge-like three-dimensional structure; and/or being stainless steel nanostructures having a layer of silicon disposed thereon.

Abstract: Composite electrodes are described herein, comprising a stainless steel substrate and silicon-containing nanostructures extending from the substrate, as well as processes for preparing such electrodes without requiring a catalyst by pre-treatment of the steel. At least a portion of the silicon-containing nanostructures are characterized by: being substantially devoid of a non-silicon catalyst material and/or a noble metal; and/or including along its length a metal constituent originating from the steel substrate; and/or including a metal silicide extending from the substrate and along at least a portion of its length; and/or being fused with at least one other silicon-containing nanostructure at a location removed from a surface of the substrate to form a sponge-like three-dimensional structure; and/or being stainless steel nanostructures having a layer of silicon disposed thereon.