Preparation of narrow band gap V₂O₅/TiO₂ composite films by micro-arc oxidation

V₂O₅/TiO₂ composite films were prepared on pure titanium substrates via micro-arc oxidation (MAO) in electrolytes consisting of NaVO₃. Their morphology and elements were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. Phase composition and valence states of species in the films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectra (UV-Vis DRS) were also employed to evaluate the photophysical property of the films. The V₂O₅/TiO₂ composite films show a sheet-like morphology. Not only V₂O₅ phase appears in the films when the NaVO₃ concentration of the electrolyte is higher than 6.10 g/L and is loaded at the surface of anatase, but also V⁴⁺ is incorporated into the crystal lattice of anatase. In comparison with pure TiO₂ films the V₂O₅/TiO₂ composite films exhibit significantly narrow band gap energy. The film prepared in an electrolyte consisting of NaVO₃ with a concentration of 8.54 g/L exhibits the narrowest band gap energy, which is approximately 1.89 eV. The V₂O₅/TiO₂ composite films also have the significantly enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity. The film prepared in an electrolyte consisting of NaVO₃ with a concentration of 8.54 g/L exhibits the best photocatalytic activity and about 93% of rhodamine is degraded after 14 h visible light radiation.