Effect of Multiple Parallel Grooves on the Photocatalytic Activity of Rutile TiO<sub>2</sub> Surfaces

Abstract

The effect of the surface conditions of (001) and (100) rutile TiO2 surfaces on the photocatalytic decomposition of linoleic acid was investigated. The rate of decomposition was observed by measuring the weight of the remaining linoleic acid. The as-received (polished) (001) surface showed a higher photocatalytic activity than the (100) surface, but the activity was greatly reduced when the surface was treated by HF solution and heated to 400°C. Condition of the surface strongly affects the photocatalytic activity. The heated (001) surface partially regained its activity after multiple parallel grooves were introduced along the [110] direction. However, the surface did not regain its activity if these grooves were instead introduced along the [1-10] or [100] directions.