TiO2 mesocrystals built of nanocrystals with exposed {001} facets: facile synthesis and superior photocatalytic ability

Abstract

In this work, a totally novel, extremely easy, much greener and low-cost method has been developed to synthesize TiO₂ mesocrystals. These materials are built of TiO₂ nanocrystals with similar crystallographic orientation and largely exposed {001} facets. Their unique structure optimizes the relationship between specific surface area, crystallite size and highly active facets, and therefore leads to a superior photocatalytic activity.