Fabrication, characterization and photocatalytic properties of Ag nanoparticles modified TiO2 NTs

► Ag nanoparticles with an average diameter of 9.2 nm were filled in the TiO2 nanotubes by a successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) technique. ► Bi-functional mercaptoacetic acid linkers were used to bind TiO2 nanotubes with Ag nanoparticles. ► Ag nanoparticles modification of TiO2 NTs largely enhanced the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange under ultraviolet light irradiation.