Fabrication of Ag electrodeposited-iron doped TiO2 nanotube composites for photoelectrochemical cathodic protection applications

Iron doped TiO2 nanotube array (FeTNTs) films were first synthesized through facile one step titanium anodization in an appropriate solution, followed by electrodeposition of Ag on the prepared film to obtain Ag/FeTNTs composite films with improved photocathodic protection performance. The effects of variations of electrodeposition time on the morphology, optical and photoelectrochemical properties of the samples prepared have been investigated. Photocurrent density, open circuit potential and Tafel polarization curves were used to confirm the photocathodic protection performance of 403 stainless steel (403SS). Ag/FeTNTs composites were capable of providing effective protection of 403SS under light irradiation and even in the dark in comparison with the uncoated FeTNTs. The corrosion potential of 403SS was shifted to -700 under light irradiation by the optimal composite film (sample t6 obtained by 6 min of silver electrodeposition), which indicates efficient photoelectrochemical cathodic protection.

Automated summary

Iron doped TiO2 nanotube array films were synthesized by a facile method, followed by electrodeposition of silver to obtain Ag/FeTNTs composite films with improved photocathodic protection performance. The composite films were capable of effectively protecting stainless steel under light irradiation, indicating efficient photoelectrochemical cathodic protection.