Abstract

• In this study, TiO2 nanotube arrays (TNTs) were fabricated by anodizing of Ti foil in NaOH/fluoride/EG electrolyte at 60 V for 60 min while dispersion of Ag nanoparticles on them were performed by photodeposition method. The morphology and crystal structure of pure TNTs and Ag decorated TNTs (Ag/TNTs) were then studied. The assembly was then used as a photoelectrode in the photoelectrochemical cell to measure the photocurrent and generate hydrogen gas. The addition of NaOH into electrolyte resulted in the formation of highly ordered TNTs with the length of 23 µm and diameter of 170 nm. Dispersion of silver nanoparticles through photodeposition was performed in order to enhance photoelectrochemical performance. Enhanced photocurrent of 5.0 mA/cm2 was achieved using Ag/TNTs compared to 3.2 mA/cm2 of pure TNTs. The conversion efficiency as measured by solar to hydrogen measurement was found to be 4% for pure TNTs and 6 % for Ag/TNTs. The enhancement thought to be due to enhanced charge separation efficiency and improved electrons transport.