arXiv subjects

Patrik Schmuki

Publications and source records attributed to Patrik Schmuki.

59 records · Page 4Linked to original sources

arXiv2016

Highly controlled coating of a biomimetic polymer in TiO2 nanotubes

Highly controlled coating of biomimetic polydopamine (PDA) was achieved on titanium dioxide nanotubes (TiO2 NTs) by exposing TiO2 NT arrays to a slightly alkaline dopamine solution. The thin films act as photonic sensitizers (enhancing photocurrents and photodegradation) in the visible light range. The PDA coatings can furthermore be used as a platform for decorating the TiO2 NTs with different co-catalysts and metal nanoparticles (NPs).

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2016

Controlled spacing of self-organized anodic TiO2 nanotubes

We report on how to grow and control self-organized TiO2 nanotube arrays that show defined and regular gaps between individual nanotubes. For this we use electrochemical anodization of titanium in fluoride containing di-ethylene glycol (DEG) electrolytes, with variations in voltage and water content in the electrolyte. In these specific electrolytes, such nanotubes show a true spacing, i.e. nanotubes are spaced both at top and at bottom in regular intervals, this in contrast to classic nanotubes obtained in other organic electrolytes showing a close-packed organization. We identify critical parameters, that define the region of existence i.e. under which condition tube spacing occurs as well as the intertube distance, to be the voltage and the water content. Using these findings allows to grow tubes where diameter and spacing can even be independently controlled.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2016

Tantalum nitride nanotube photoanodes: establishing a beneficial back-contact by lift-off and transfer to titanium nitride layer

In this work we introduce the use of TiN/Ti2 N layers as a back contact for lifted-off membranes of anodic Ta3N5 nanotube layers. In photoelectrochemical H2 generation experiments under simulated AM 1.5G light, shift of the onset potential for anodic photocurrents to lower potentials is observed, as well as a higher magnitude of the photocurrents compared to conventional Ta3N5 nanotubes (~ 0.5 V RHE ). We ascribe this beneficial effect to the improved conductive properties of the TiNx -based back contact layer that enables a facilitated electron-transport for tantalum-nitride based materials to the conductive substrate.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2016

Topographical study of TiO2 nanostructure surface for photocatalytic hydrogen production

In the present work we investigate the photocatalytic hydrogen production (water splitting) activity of different Pt loaded TiO2 nanotube layers. Therefore, we fabricate free standing membranes and fix them in four different configurations: top up (with initiation layer grass or without) and bottom up (bottom closed or open), then decorate the tubes with various amounts of Pt and measure the open-circuit photocatalytic H2 production rate. We find a strong influence of the configuration with the open top morphology showing the highest photocatalytic hydrogen production efficiency, these nanotubes yield 3.5 times more H2 than the least efficient structure (bottom closed). The work therefore provides valuable guidelines for optimizing TiO2 nanotube layers for photocatalytic applications.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2016

Anodic TiO2 nanotube layers: why does self-organized growth occur - A mini review

The present review gives an overview of the highlights of more than 10 years of research on synthesis and applications of ordered oxide structures (nanotube layers, hexagonal pore arrangements) that are formed by self-organizing anodization of metals. In particular we address the questions after the critical factors that lead to the spectacular self-ordering during the growth of anodic oxides that finally yield morphologies such as highly ordered TiO2 nanotube arrays and similar structures. Why are tubes and pores formed - what are the key parameters controlling these processes?

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗