Diffusion of graphitic compound into TiO₂ lattice

Abstract

In this study diffusion of graphitic compound, GO into TiO₂,rutile lattice has been investigated. First and foremost, anatase powder was being calcined at 750°C for 12 hours in order for phase transition from anatase to rutile phase occurred. Rutile pellets with dimension of 10mm*3mm were prepared through powder metallurgy. While, GO powder was prepared by using an improved Hummer method. Next, 0.2g of GO powder was load onto rutile pellets at different sintering temperature (a) 500°C, (b) 600°C, (c) 700°C and (d) 800°C for 24 hours. XRD, SEM-EDX and XPS have been used during samples analysis. Based on XRD studied, it shows the present of rutile peaks and GO peaks when sintered at 700°C. Based on SEMEDX analysis at sintering temperature 700°C, it shows most of C atoms has already diffused into rutile lattice. Depth profiling from XPS analysis revealed that significant inter-diffusion had occurred between TiO2,rutile and GO. This can be concluded that, during particular temperature, C atoms have gained enough activation energy to fill the vacant sites inside rutile lattice.