Fabrication of CdTe/ZnS core/shell quantum dots sensitized TiO2 nanotube films for photocathodic protection of stainless steel

Abstract A highly ordered TiO 2 nanotube array film on a titanium substrate was fabricated by an anodic oxidation method. Then CdTe/ZnS core/shell quantum dots were successfully prepared on the film by pulsed potential electrodeposition and chemical bath deposition in succession. The results indicated that the CdTe/ZnS quantum dots sensitized TiO 2 composite film displayed a significant increase in photocurrent compared with a pure TiO 2 nanotube film, and its photoabsorption was extended to the visible region. Under white light illumination, the composite film as a sustainable photoanode had better photoelectric conversion performance and could provide striking photocathodic protection for 403 stainless steel.