Response surface methodology for optimization of the one-step preparation of RGO-TNTs as visible light catalysts

Abstract

The reduced graphene oxide (RGO) coupled TiO2 nanotube (TNT) visible light catalyst was synthesized in a one-step anodization process. Response surface methods statistically determine the optimum conditions for the design and analysis of experiments. The photoelectrochemical activity of RGO-TNTs was tested by degradation of organics under visible light irradiation. The optimum synthesis condition was found when the RGO-TNT catalyst was anodized in one-step at 47.74V for 2.06h, and this synthesis shows almost complete degradation. The as-prepared catalyst was characterized by FE-SEM, XRD, AES, PL, and UV-vis DRS analyses. The reusability test was performed in order to investigate the stability of the catalyst.