Synthesis and characterization of TiO2 nanotube/hydroquinone hybrid structure

It is shown that 1,4-benzenediol (hydroquinone) and TiO2 nanotubes can form a hybrid structure that is stable in aqueous environment. The incorporation of hydroquinone restores the local structure of nanotubes to anatase-like as evidenced by Raman spectroscopy. Subtle overall structural changes take place upon annealing of the hybrid structure contributing to its stability. The hybrid system shows a broad optical absorption peak extending significantly beyond 700 nm with potential applications in photocatalysis and photoelectrochemistry.