Novel Synthesis of 4nm Anatase Nanoparticles at Room Temperature Obtained from TiO2 Nanotube Structures by Anodizing Ti

Abstract

The scope of the chapter is showing novel experimental findings on preparing anatase TiO2 nanoparticles, first anodizing titanium into an organic media for obtaining TiO2 nanotubes, and these used as a photo catalytic active electrode in treating water polluted with organic contaminants. The substrates were grit blasted in order to obtain mechanical fixation of the generated nanotubular TiO2 structure. This was successfully achieved without diminishment of the nanotubes order and with a self-leveling of the outer surface. A new phenomenon is investigated consisting in the process of oxidation of the nanotubes in water after anodizing. Along this process, methyl orange added to the aqueous solution was discolored as part of the redox reaction involved. The final state of the modified layer was composed of conglomerates of crystalline TiO2 nanoparticles, around 4 nm in size, consisting of anatase. This was obtained under room conditions.