Low-temperature synthesis of anatase C-N-TiO2 photocatalyst with enhanced visible-light-induced photocatalytic activity

► Low-temperature synthesis of anatase C-N-TiO2 photocatalyst. ► High visible-light-induced activity. ► The existence of retained alkoxyl groups on the anatase surface. ► The synergistic effect between the TiO2 surface complexes and nitrogen doping.