Synthesis of Y-branched TiO 2 nanotubes

Abstract

Self-organized, Y-branched TiO 2 nanotubes were synthesized using a multi-step sonoelectrochemical anodization method. A change in anodization temperature (Δ T = 10 °C) at a constant applied potential leads to a Y-type branched TiO 2 nanotubes. The as-anodized titania nanotubes were annealed under hydrogen atmosphere at 500 °C to convert the amorphous titania nanotubes to crystalline with mostly anatase crystal structure. These nanotubes are found to possess higher photon absorption properties compared the 1D TiO 2 nanotubes. Various characterization techniques, viz., FESEM, GXRD, HRTEM, FFT, UV–VIS etc. are used to characterize the materials.