Understanding the surface reduction of nano rutile and anatase: Selective breaking of Ti-O bonds

Though black titania has been widely investigated, the influence of crystal phase during the reduction process remains unknown. In the present study, we found that the rutile phase is preferentially reduced over anatase from detailed experimental investigations and a comprehensive understanding of selective breaking of Ti-O bonds in surfaced TiO6 octahedral motifs. This work may inspire an encouraging understanding in designing highly efficient black material for solar harvesting.