Carbon nanotubes were processed by circumfluence with concentrated nitric acid, high-temperature calcination and milling with high speed after calcination, respectively. The specific surface area was tested by the low-temperature nitrogen adsorption method. The morphologies of such carbon nanotubes before and after treatment were characterized by transmission electron microscopy while infrared spectra were used to analyze the change of surface functional group. The content of amorphous carbon and graphite carbon was determined by Raman spectrum. The carbon nanotubes before and after treatment were made into electrocatalytic anode to degrade active red X-3B simulated wastewater. The experimental results indicated that the stability and electrocatalytic degradation efficiency of the electrodes made of carbon nanotubes after treatment were obviously improved. The process of milling with high speed after calcination was considered the best pre-treatment.

Key words: carbon nanotube, electrocatalytic, dye