Work

In2S3-decorated TiO2 nanotubes with a Type-II heterojunction for enhanced photoelectrochemical cathodic protection of 316L stainless steel

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: In this study, TiO 2 nanotubes decorated with In 2 S 3 films were fabricated by anodic oxidation followed by hydrothermal deposition. Under optimized conditions (2 mmol precursor, 12 h), the TiO 2 /In 2 S 3 photoanode delivered a photocurrent density of 3 μA cm −2 and a photovoltage drop of 400 mV under AM 1.5 G irradiation, demonstrating enhanced photoelectrochemical cathodic protection. In addition, the composite exhibited strong photocatalytic antimicrobial activity. Plate count assays showed a dose-dependent bactericidal effect, achieving bacterial elimination at 2.5 mg/mL under illumination, while exhibiting negligible dark toxicity. Mechanistic analysis indicated that the type-II heterojunction promotes charge carrier separation and inhibits recombination, thereby improving both photoelectrochemical cathodic protection and antibacterial performance.

Source: International Journal of Electrochemical Science

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijoes.2026.101360

Authors: Xin Yang, Yang Zhou, Jiarun Li, Feng Qian

Institutions: Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Shandong University

Language: English

Topic: TiO2 Photocatalysis and Solar Cells

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,670