Preparation of TiO 2 Nanoparticle/Nanotube Composites via a Vapor Hydrolysis Method and Their Photocatalytic Activities

Abstract

TiO 2 nanoparticle/nanotube composites were prepared by a vapor hydrolysis method and were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and N 2 isothermal adsorption-desorption. The well-crystallized TiO 2 nanoparticles were uniformly deposited onto the surface of TiO 2 nanotubes. The photocatalytic activity of the composites was evaluated by the degradation of acid red G and phenol solution under UV irradiation. The results showed that the photocatalytic activities of the modified composites were significantly enhanced compared to the pristine nanotubes. In particular, the 50 wt% TiO 2 nanoparticle/nanotube composite obtained at 120°C exhibited a remarkable ARG degradation efficiency of 90% after irradiation for 30 minutes and a phenol degradation efficiency of 93% after irradiation for 2 hours.