The potential characteristics of graphite felt electrodes, modified by iron oxide, for oxygen reduction are evaluated. Modification is carried out by Successive Ion Layer Adsorption and Reaction (SILAR) method, using a solution of ferric nitrate in methanol for the adsorption of ions, and a solution of sodium hypochlorite for reaction. The reaction activity of the oxygen reduction from the air, in sodium sulfate based solution varying the number of SILAR cycles, as well as the influence of pH is investigated. By comparing the activity with pure platinum, similar activity is obtained at pH = 9.2, as well as good electrode stability. Possible mechanism of the oxygen reduction on the graphite felt modified by iron oxide is discussed. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.