Protonated Titanates and TiO₂ Nanostructured Materials: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications

TLDR

Tubular and fibrous titanate nanostructures have recently been synthesized and characterized. This review surveys the main synthesis routes for nanostructured titanates and TiO₂, examines their crystal structures, morphologies, and formation mechanisms, and discusses how their physicochemical properties relate to potential applications. The authors analyze template‑assisted, anodic oxidation, and alkaline hydrothermal methods, detailing the resulting crystal structures, morphologies, formation pathways, and the stability of titanate nanotubes under high temperatures and acidic conditions. The review emphasizes that the physicochemical properties of nanostructured titanates directly influence their suitability for catalysis, photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, lithium‑ion batteries, hydrogen storage, and solar‑cell technologies.

Abstract

Abstract Tubular and fibrous nanostructures of titanates have recently been synthesized and characterized. Three general approaches (template assisted, anodic oxidation, and alkaline hydrothermal) for the preparation of nanostructured titanate and TiO 2 are reviewed. The crystal structures, morphologies, and mechanism of formation of nanostructured titanates produced by the alkaline hydrothermal method are critically discussed. The physicochemical properties of nanostructured titanates are highlighted and the links between properties and applications are emphasized. Examples of early applications of nanostructured titanates in catalysis, photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, lithium batteries, hydrogen storage, and solar‐cell technologies are reviewed. The stability of titanate nanotubes at elevated temperatures and in acid media is considered.