Rotating Photocatalytic Activity of Tio2 Nanotubes Grown on 3d-Printed Titanium Alloy Structures

Abstract

Herein, TiO2 nanotubes are synthesised from 3D-printed Ti6Al4V titanium alloy structures via an anodization process. Anodization is performed on flat structures and other open lattice 3D structures. The impact of anodization duration on the photocatalytic efficiency is investigated on the flat samples, with a focus on the degradation of methylene blue under ultraviolet (UV) and simulated sunlight. An optimal anodization time of 15 min is identified and subsequently applied to the 3D structures to evaluate the effect of shape. Further photocatalytic assessments are conducted on these complex 3D structures under dynamic conditions involving rotational movements, which demonstrate enhanced photocatalytic performance compared to static conditions. These findings highlight the effectiveness of combining 3D-printing technology with tailored anodization processes in enhancing the photocatalytic properties of TiO2-based materials, with potential applications in environmental remediation and advanced technologies.

Keywords: TiO2 nanotubes, Anodization, Titanium alloy, 3d printing, Rotating reactor, Photocatalysis