Synthesis of mixed phase anatase-TiO2(B) by a simple wet chemical method

Abstract

A photoactive mixed phase, anatase-TiO2(B) was synthesized from a mixture of trititanate nanotube and urea at relatively mild conditions. This material exhibited enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen generation under simulated solar irradiation. The enhancement was credited to the presence of mixed phases of anatase and TiO2(B) that minimized charge-carrier recombination. The results validate the superior performance of anatase-TiO2(B) compared to anatase or TiO2(B) alone. Such mixed phase materials may also be applicable for solar assisted degradation of persistent organic pollutants and solar energy conversion devices.