Nanotubular TiO₂ with Remedied Defects for Photocatalytic Nitrogen Fixation

Abstract

Optimal degree of defects, such as oxygen vacancies, plays an important role in many photocatalytic reactions. In this report, a facile amine-assisted remedying strategy was used to control the defects in TiO2 nanotubes. The remedying effect on the structure has been comprehensively characterized by X-ray diffraction, Raman spectra, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and electron spin resonance. As a result, the amine-assisted remediation will contribute to the favorable charge carrier separation and transfer during the photocatalytic N2 fixation reaction. This work not only provides a new strategy for defective TiO2 nanotubes but also presents a prospect for controlling the density of the defects.