Preparation, characterization and photocatalytic activities of F-doped TiO2 nanotubes

F-doped TiO2 nanotubes were prepared by impregnation method. The prepared catalysts were characterized by XRD, TEM, and XPS. The photocatalytic activity of F-doped TiO2 nanotubes was evaluated through the photodegradation of aqueous methyl orange. The experiments demonstrated that the F-doped TiO2 nanotubes calcined at 300 degrees C possessed the best photocatalytic activity. Compared with pure TiO2 nanotubes, the doping with F- significantly enhanced the photocatalytic efficiency. The high photocatalytic activity was ascribed to several beneficial effects produced by F-doping: creation of oxygen vacancies, presence of Ti3+, and so on.