Anatase TiO2 microspheres with reactive {001} facets for improved photocatalytic activity

Anatase TiO2 microspheres with a high percentage (>90%) of exposed high- reactivity {001} facets were synthesized using hydrofluoric acid generated in situ through hydrolysis of titanium tetrafluoride (TiF4) as a capping and stabilizing agent without introducing any additional hydrofluoric acid under hydrothermal conditions. The as-prepared TiO2 microspheres show excellent photocatalytic activity in the degradation of toxic organic contaminants as well as production of hydrogen in water under UV light irradiation.