Facile preparation and photoelectrochemical properties of CdSe/TiO2 NTAs

In the present work we report the design and synthesis of CdSe/TiO2 nanotube arrays (NTAs) and their implementation as a photoanode for photoelectrochemical (PEC) application. CdSe nanoparticles with well dispersion were decorated on the inner and outer surfaces of 2.5 μm-long TiO2 nanotubes via electrodeposition. These CdSe/TiO2 NTAs exhibit a significant photocurrent responds under visible light illumination (λ ≥ 420 nm). The results presented in this study display a promising method that the photoelectrochemical performance could be improved via composition, size and crystalline control of CdSe/TiO2 NTAs. And the tubular morphology is also able to facilitate charge transport in nanostructure-based PEC cells. This research demonstrates a new approach, which have great potential applications in fabricating novel heterostructure-photoelectrochemical devices.

Nano-CdSe with well dispersion was decorated on the surfaces of 2.5 μm long TiO2 nanotube through controllable growth of electrodeposition. They exhibit a significant photocurrent responds under visible light illumination.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlight
► A coupled semiconductor material is prepared by filling TiO2 nanotubes (NTs) with CdSe.
► The CdSe/TiO2 NTAs exhibit a remarkable photovoltaic response under visible light illumination (λ ≥ 420 nm).
► The usefulness of tubular morphology in facilitating charge transport in nanostructure-based PEC cells is presented.
► We’re able to improve the photoelectrochemical response via composition and size control of CdSe/TiO2 NTAs.