Fluoride free synthesis of anatase TiO2 nanocrystals with exposed active {001} facets.

A novel fluoride free protocol for highly truncated anatase TiO2 nanocrystals with exposed {001} facets by preferential adsorption of CO3(2-) ions is developed. Experimental observations were corroborated by first principle quantum chemical DFT calculations. The synthesized anatase TiO2 showed improved photocatalytic activity.

Room temperature synthesis of protonated layered titanate sheets using peroxo titanium carbonate complex solution.

We report the synthesis of peroxo titanium carbonate complex solution as a novel water-soluble precursor for the direct synthesis of layered protonated titanate at room temperature. The synthesized titanates showed excellent removal capacity for Pb(2+) and methylene blue. Based on experimental observations, a probable mechanism for the formation of protonated layered dititanate sheets is also discussed.