One-step synthesis of nanograss-free TiO2 nanotubes using DTPA-enriched electrolytes

Abstract A single-step anodic fabrication of TiO 2 nanotubes (TNT) without a surface layer of nanograss was attained in electrolytes containing diethylenetriamine-pentaaceticacid (DTPA) as chelating agent. The role of DTPA concentration and anodization voltage on the final TNT morphology was studied. We discuss chemical aspects of the DTPA effect over the surface of TNTs as well as the physical properties of TNT samples prepared under several anodization conditions. We demonstrate that the DTPA concentration has a significant effect on the final surface morphology of TNTs, leading to a surface free of nanograss. Furthermore, we propose a mechanism that explains this phenomenon.