Influence of ruthenium doping on UV- and visible-light photoelectrocatalytic color removal from dye solutions using a TiO2 nanotube array photoanode

The photocatalytic activity of TiO2 anodes was enhanced by synthesizing Ru-doped Ti|TiO2 nanotube arrays. Such photoanodes were fabricated via Ti anodization followed Ru impregnation and annealing. X-ray diffractograms revealed that anatase the main phase, while rutile slightly present in all samples. Scanning electron microscopy evidenced a uniform morphology samples, with diameter ranging from 60 to 120 nm. bias potential for photoelectrochemical (PEC) treatment selected electrochemical characterization each electrode, made linear sweep voltammetry. All array showed peak photocurrent (PP) saturation (SP) upon their illumination UV or visible light. In contrast, undoped nanotubes only SP, which higher than reached using An exception Ru(0.15 wt%)-doped TiO2, whose SP comparable under Using anode, enhancement during PEC Terasil Blue dye solution at Ebias(PP) much attained Ebias(SP). percentage color removal min 98% 55% light, respectively, being greater 82% 28% achieved photocatalysis. moderate visible-light photoactivity arrays suggests convenience work solar conditions, aiming large portion spectrum.