TiO2 nanotubes: Self-organized electrochemical formation, properties and applications

The present paper gives an overview and review on self-organized TiO₂ nanotube layers and other transition metal oxide tubular structures grown by controlled anodic oxidation of a metal substrate. We describe mechanistic aspects of the tube growth and discuss the electrochemical conditions that need to be fulfilled in order to synthesize these layers. Key properties of these highly ordered, high aspect ratio tubular layers are discussed. In the past few years, a wide range of functional applications of the layers have been explored ranging from photocatalysis, solar energy conversion, electrochromic effects over using the material as a template or catalyst support to applications in the biomedical field. A comprehensive view on state of the art is provided.