I am trying to synthesize TiO2 nanotubes by anodization of Titanium sheet. In literatue, I have come across about different cathode materials such as Pt, Pd and graphite. I would like to know what is the best choice for the cathode.
Also, my Ti anode is a flat sheet of thickness 0.5 mm, and 1cm x 1 cm area. What is the best size and shape for the cathode? Is it okay if it is a wire, or do I need to use a sheet as the same size of the anode?
Thank you very much for your support.
Dear Hansinee,
I have synthesized TiO2 nanotubes using Titanium sheet with a circular area about 1.77 cm^2. I have used a Pt Mesh as a cathode with a circular area, it was bigger than that of Ti. And I got a good TiO2 nanotubes with these conditions.
I wish you can get an accurate answer for your question and I want to know the answer as well.
Regards;
Hansinee Sakunthala Sitinamaluwa
You can use various metallic electrodes, but before that more information should be provided for the best choice of the electrode, such what is the voltage range of your DC supply? etc. I found that Pt is the best.
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Dear Mr. Sitinamaluwa ,
Cathode do not play some crucial role in the Ti anodization, but it should be parallel with Ti. In my opinion for the laboratory testing Pt is due to corrosion stability in F- containing solutions the best choice.
Dear Hansinee Sakunthala Sitinamaluwa,
Depends on what is "best" for you. The nature of the cathode material affects the morphology and the appearance of surface precipitates. This was investigated in the article cited below.
However, the choice also depends on the size of Ti you want to anodize and on the availability of a cathode of similar size. This ensures that electrons generated in Ti oxidation will be continuously consumed in cathode reduction reactions.
In this way, graphite and steel are cheap options.
See: Allam NK, Grimes CA (2008) Effect of cathode material on the morphology and photoelectrochemical properties of vertically oriented TiO2 nanotube arrays. Sol Energy Mater sol cells 92:1468–1475
Regards,
Many thanks for everyone for your valuable answers.
A Pt mesh is the best choice and don't forget about steering of the electrolyte ant temperature stabilization.
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