Au/TiO2 nanotube catalysts prepared by combining sol–gel method with hydrothermal treatment and their catalytic properties for CO oxidation

A new preparation method for Au/TiO2 nanotubes (NTs) by combing sol–gel with hydrothermal treatment technique was developed. The TiO2 NTs calcined at 300 °C were nearly uniform, and the gold particles were distributed homogeneously. The possible formation mechanism was suggested. The 5 % Au/TiO2 NTs calcined at 300 °C had the best catalytic activity for CO oxidation, and their conversion of CO remained at 100 % during 60 h on stream. This preparation method could improve the thermal stability of Au/TiO2 nanotube catalysts.