Electrical devices which incorporate electrodes coated with carbon nanotubes. An anode is placed in conductive relationship with the coated electrode. A gas or liquid medium is placed between the electrode and anode which medium also participates in the transfer of electrons. Using specific gas media in combination with nanotube coated electrodes allows for the production of electromagnetic radiation sources which have extended life, reduced power requirements, and significantly decreased operating temperatures. Likewise carbon nanotube coated electrodes can be advantageously utilized in fuel cells, electrodeposition, and similar applications greatly extending the life of electrodes and improving the electron emission properties.