Carbon thin film (CTF)-modified electrodes were successfully prepared on Ni substrates via a one-step hydrothermal method. The properties of the films were investigated by X-ray diffraction patterns, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Specific surface area and porosity were calculated from the N2 adsorption desorption isotherms. Electroactivity was assessed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The CTF prepared at 180 °C showed coarse morphology with a large number of carbon spheres (Φ1–4 μm) on the surface with a surface area of 76.77 m2 g−1 and good electroactivity with low charge transfer resistance. The CTF-modified Ni substrate was used as an electrode for the electroreduction of imidacloprid, achieving a 92.1% removal efficiency for the electroreduction of imidacloprid.
