Fabrication of partially crystalline TiO2 nanotube arrays using 1, 2-propanediol electrolytes and application in dye-sensitized solar cells

We report the fabrication of self-organized partial crystalline TiO2 nanotube arrays in 1, 2-propanediol containing fluoride ion. The influence of anodization parameters including NH4F concentration, water content, anodization voltage and time on the morphology, diameter and length of TiO2 nanotube were investigated in detail. The prepared TiO2 nanotube has diameter in 30–120 nm and length in 0.6–3 μm. TiO2 nanotube arrays are used as photoanode for the application in dye-sensitized solar cell and the photovoltaic performance of 1.91% is achieved with a TiO2 nanotube sample of 2.2 μm in length combining with N719 dye, and the corresponding photovoltaic parameters of 3.6 mA cm−2 in short circuit photocurrent density, 840 mV in open circuit potential, and 63.2% in fill factor.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Partially crystalline TiO2 nanotube arrays are prepared using 1, 2-propanediol electrolyte. ► Anodization voltage exhibits obvious influence on the morphology of TiO2. ► The influence of anodization parameters are investigated in detail.