TiO₂nanorod arrays/Ti₃C₂T_xMXene nanosheet composites with efficient photocatalytic activity

Semiconductor photocatalysis holds significant promise in addressing both environmental and energy challenges. However, a major hurdle in photocatalytic processes remains the efficient separation of photoinduced charge carriers. In this study, TiO₂nanorod arrays were employed by glancing angle deposition technique, onto which Ti₃C₂T_xMXene was deposited through a spin-coating process. This hybrid approach aims to amplify the photocatalytic efficacy of TiO₂nanorod arrays. Through photocurrent efficiency characterization testing, an optimal loading of TiO₂/Ti₃C₂T_xcomposites is identified. Remarkably, this composite exhibits a 40% increase in photocurrent density in comparison to pristine TiO₂. This enhancement is attributed to the exceptional electrical conductivity and expansive specific surface area inherent to Ti₃C₂T_xMXene. These attributes facilitate swift transport of photoinduced electrons, consequently refining the separation and migration of electron-hole pairs. The synergistic TiO₂/Ti₃C₂T_xcomposite showcases its potential across various domains including photoelectrochemical water splitting and diverse photocatalytic devices. As such, this composite material stands as a novel and promising entity for advancing photocatalytic applications. This study can offer an innovative approach for designing simple and efficient photocatalytic materials composed of MXene co-catalysts and TiO₂for efficient water electrolysis on semiconductors.