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Title: Graphene oxide modified TiO2 nanotube arrays: enhanced visible light photoelectrochemical properties

Journal Article · · Nanoscale
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1039/C2NR11938B· OSTI ID:1036410

Novel nanocomposite films based on graphene oxide (GO) and TiO2 nanotube arrays were synthesized by assembling GO on the surface of self-organized TiO2 nanotube arrays through a simple assembling method. The composite films were characterized with field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. Photoelectrochemical properties of the composite nanotube arrays were investigated under visible light illumination. Remarkably enhanced visible light photoelectrochemical response was observed for the GO decorated TiO2 nanotube composite electrode compared with pristine TiO2 nanotube arrays. Sensitizing effect of GO on the photoelectrochemical response of TiO2 nanotube arrays was demonstrated and about 15 times enhanced maximum photoconversion efficiency was obtained with the presence of GO. Enhanced photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanotube arrays towards degradation of methyl blue was also demonstrated after modification of GO. The results presented here demonstrate GO to be efficient for the improvement of utilization of visible light for TiO2 nanotube arrays.

Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
1036410
Report Number(s):
PNNL-SA-84852; NANOHL; TRN: US201206%%284
Journal Information:
Nanoscale, Vol. 4, Issue 5; ISSN 2040-3364
Publisher:
Royal Society of Chemistry
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English