Highly ordered TiO2 nanotube arrays embedded with g-C3N4 nanorods for enhanced photocatalytic activity

For the improvement in the techniques of wastewater treatment, we prepared a new type of TiO2 nanotube arrays (TiO2 NTAs/g-C3N4 nanorods) composite. Vertical embedded g-C3N4 nanorods into highly ordered TiO2 nanotubes was successfully synthesized through anodization followed by hydrothermal method. TiO2 NTAs/g-C3N4 nanorods composite showed an enhanced photodegradation of 2,4-dinitrophenol (2,4-DNP) compared with unmodified TiO2 NTAs due to the increasing carrier producing rate and efficient transfer of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. A complete removal of 2,4-DNP was observed in 30 min irradiation under simulated solar light by using TiO2 NTAs/g-C3N4 nanorods photocatalyst. This work indicates that TiO2 NTAs/g-C3N4 nanorods photocatalyst may become a promising material for organic pollutant degradation and further application in the wastewater treatment.