A pH sensor based on the TiO2 nanotube array modified Ti electrode

In this paper, a novel solid state pH sensor was fabricated by anodization of titanium substrate electrode. The relationship between pH sensitivity and hydrophilicity or surface morphology of TiO2 film was investigated. Amorphous TiO2 nanotube has better pH response than anatase TiO2 nanotube. After being irradiated by ultraviolet light (UV), the potential response of the electrode modified by amorphous TiO2 nanotube was close to Nernst equation (59 mV/pH). SEM, XRD, and XPS were used to characterize electrodes. Possible mechanism was discussed by analyzing surface hydroxyl groups, crystal structure and hydrophilicity of the electrodes. The electrode has been used to detect some kinds of soft drinks and shows good response. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.