One-step synthesis of single-crystal anatase TiO2 tetragonal faceted-nanorods for improved-performance dye-sensitized solar cells

A facile one-step synthesis process to fabricate single-crystal anatase TiO2 tetragonal faceted-nanorods (ATTFNRs) is introduced through using tetrabutylammonium hydroxide (TBAH) as a morphology controlling agent. The obtained ATTFNRs are dominated by a large percentage of {010} facets. The formation mechanism of the ATTFNRs is proposed. The power conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) based on ATTFNRs (7.73%) exhibits a significant improvement (37%) compared to that of the anatase TiO2 nanoparticles (5.65%). The improved performance of the ATTFNRs solar cell is ascribed to their strong dye adsorption capacity, effective charge transport and enhanced light scattering effect.