Black TiO nanotube arrays fabricated by electrochemical self-doping and their photoelectrochemical performance.

Herein, black TiO nanotube arrays (NTAs) were fabricated using electrochemical self-doping approaches, and characterized systemically by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-visible absorption spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). The as-obtained black TiO nanotube arrays (NTAs) exhibited stronger absorption in the visible-light region, a better separation rate of light-induced carriers, and higher electrical conductivity than TiO nanotube arrays (NTAs). These characteristics cause black TiO nanotube array (NTA) electrodes to have higher photoelectrocatalytic activity for degrading anthraquinone dye (reactive brilliant blue KN-R) than the TiO nanotube array (NTA) electrode. Furthermore, a synergetic action between photocatalysis and electrocatalysis was also observed. The black TiO nanotube array (NTA) electrode is considered to be a promising photoanode for the treatment of organic pollutants.