Synthesis of visible-light-driven TiO2 yolk–shell spheres with {0 0 1} facets dominated mesoporous shells

Anatase phase visible-light-driven TiO2 yolk–shell spheres with the size of ca. 1–2 μm have been synthesized with the combination of solvothermal and heat treatment method. XRD, SEM, TEM, XPS, and PL analysis were used to examine structure and properties of the photocatalyst. The N species and Ti3+ centers introduced into the as-prepared photocatalyst can enhance the visible light absorption significantly. The mesoporous shell of the prepared photocatalyst, which promotes the pollutant adsorption ability, consists of the high-reactive {0 0 1} facets dominated nanocrystals. Due to the unique structure, it is also observed that the as-prepared visible-light-driven TiO2 yolk–shell spheres exhibit a superior photocatalytic activity for organic dyes decomposition than the well-known P25.

Graphical abstractYolk–shell TiO2microspheres with its mesoporous shell consisted of {0 0 1} facets dominated nanocrystals were prepared. The unique structure of as-prepared TiO2 photocatalyst gives high ability toward visible light absorption and organic pollutant degradation.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide