To What Extent Do Graphene Scaffolds Improve the Photovoltaic and Photocatalytic Response of TiO₂ Nanostructured Films?

Abstract

Graphene−TiO2 nanocomposites synthesized via a solution-based method involving photocatalytic reduction of graphene oxide have been employed as photoanodes. Nearly 90% enhancement in the photocurrent is seen as reduced graphene oxide serves as electron collector and transporter. Additionally, the graphene−TiO2 nanocomposite electrodes exhibit significant activity for the complete photocatalytic decomposition of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D). Combined with safe, solution-based synthetic practices, the promising photocurrent and photocatalytic degradation rates provide the framework and motivation for the implementation of graphene−TiO2 nanocomposites on larger scales.