Microwave-assisted synthesis and characterization of Ti1 − xVxO2 (x = 0.0–0.10) nanopowders

Ti1 − xVxO2 (x = 0.0–0.10) nanopowders were successfully synthesized by a microwave-assisted sol–gel technique and their crystal structure and electronic structure were investigated. The products were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The results revealed that TiO2 powders maintained the anatase phase for calcination temperature below 600 °C, but gradually changed to the rutile phase above 800 °C. The formation of the rutile phase was completed at 1000 °C. For Ti1 − xVxO2 (x = 0.05) powders, the phase transformation appeared at 600 °C. The absorption edge of Ti1 − xVxO2 (x > 0) powders broadened to the visible region with increasing V concentration and a strong visible light absorption was obtained with 10% V doping. V doping and subsequent coexistence of both anatase and rutile phases in our Ti1 − xVxO2 nanoparticles are considered to be responsible for the enhanced absorption of visible light up to 800 nm.

► Ti1 − xVxO2 (x = 0.0–0.10) nanopowders have been successfully synthesized using microwave assisted method.
► The evidences of incorporation of V in Ti sites have been found.
► The coexistence of both anatase and rutile phases in Ti1 − xVxO2 were observed.
► The strong visible light absorption was obtained in the Ti0.9V0.1O2 nanopowders.