| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1615059 | Journal of Alloys and Compounds | 2013 | 7 Pages |
A novel heterostructure of Co3O4-modified TiO2 nanorod arrays (NRs) is fabricated by a facile two-step solution-based method. First, TiO2 NRs grow on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) conductive glass substrates by hydrothermal method. Afterward, Co3O4 nanoparticles were coated on the TiO2 NRs using a photochemical coating method. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, field emission electron-scanning microscopy, transmission electron microscopic, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV–visible spectroscopy. For the first time, the photoelectrochemical (PEC) properties of the electrode made by the Co3O4-modified TiO2 NRs were investigated under visible-light irradiation. The results showed remarkably enhanced visible light PEC response of the Co3O4-modified TiO2 NRs in comparison with the pure TiO2 NRs, offering attractive perspectives for applications of the Co3O4-modified TiO2 NRs in solar cells or photocatalysts.
Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► We developed a facile route for the fabrication of Co3O4 -modified TiO2 NRs. ► The Co3O4-modified TiO2 NRs obviously increase the visible light absorption. ► The superior photoelectrochemical activity is achieved on the Co3O4-modified TiO2 NR.
