Preparation of ZnO@TiO2 nanotubes heterostructured film by thermal decomposition and their photocatalytic performances

Abstract

TiO₂ nanotubes (NTs) arrays prepared by anodic oxidation were modified with ZnO particles and their morphology and photocatalytic properties were investigated. A simple thermal decomposition process was involved in the modification method. Zinc acetate solution was filled into the TiO₂ NTs arrays, and ZnO@TiO₂ heterojunction films were formed after the thermal treatment. The morphology and catalytic properties of the heterojunction films could be manipulated by the concentration of zinc acetate solution. Compared to TiO₂ NTs arrays, the ZnO@TiO₂ heterojunction films with an optimized concentration of zinc acetate showed enhanced catalytic performances. Their photocatalytic activities were discussed with respect to the formation of ZnO@TiO₂ heterojunctions and enforced charge separation. This study demonstrates a simple method to prepare ZnO nanoparticles@TiO₂ NT heterojunction films, which is promising for other environmental and energy related applications.