Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
186892 | Electrochimica Acta | 2013 | 7 Pages |
A hierarchical heterojunction TiO2 photoanode with large surface/body ratio is reported to exhibit high oxidation activity due to the constructing of anatase TiO2 with exposed (0 0 1) facets. The mixed-phase photoanode is fabricated through surfactant-assisted anchoring ultrathin anatase nanosheets on vertically ordered rutile nanorod arrays. This cactaceae-like TiO2 possesses high-exposed (0 0 1) facets outer layer, large specific surface area (375 m2 g−1), efficient photo-to-current conversion (8.2%) and excellent photocatalytic ability to degrade bisphenol A. The greatly promoted photoelectric and photocatalytic performance results from the synergetic effects of the architecture design of high-active (0 0 1) facets and hierarchical heterojunctions. The mechanism analysis reveals that the remarkable increase of photogenerated carrier concentration (2.40 × 1022 cm−3) improves photocatalytic activity, by virtue of constructing staggered energy levels, suppressing the recombination of electrons and holes, and extending the electron lifetime (133 ms).
► (0 0 1) facet TiO2 photoanode with large surface area is reported for the first time. ► Ordered heterojunction further improves light absorption in (0 0 1) facet TiO2 system. ► (0 0 1) facet TiO2 photoanode possesses promoted photoelectrocatalytic performance. ► Photoelectrical enhancement mechanism is clarified by electrochemical methods. ► Photogenerated carrier and lifetime are remarkably enhanced by ingenious design.