Synthesis of heterostructure Cu₂O/TiO₂ nanotube arrays by AC electrochemical deposition

ABSTRACT

Cu₂O/TiO₂ nanotube arrays are synthesized by ac electrodepositing Cu₂O directly into TiO₂ nanotube arrays. The asymmetry of the I-V characteristics show the heterostructure has clear rectification, indicating good electrical contacts between the TiO₂ and the embedded Cu₂O. FESEM and HRTEM analysis identified the formation of one-dimensional Cu₂O/TiO₂ nanotube arrays. A bath pH in the range of 9.0 to 11.5 is preferred to form the high crystallinity of cubic Cu₂O loaded into TiO₂ nanotube arrays.

KEYWORDS:

• p-Cu₂O
• n-TiO₂ nanotube arrays
• heterostructure
• ac electrodeposition