Structural features of titanate nanotubes/nanobelts revealed by raman, X-ray absorption fine structure and electron diffraction characterizations

High-purity nanotubes and nanobelts could be controllably obtained in hydrothermal treatments of anatase TiO₂ in concentrated NaOH solution depending on treating temperature and duration. Their structural features were studied employing X-ray diffraction, Raman, X-ray absorption fine structure, and electron diffraction characterizations. The results reveal that both the nanotubes and nanobelts might be of layered titanate structure. The similarity and difference among the nanotubes/nanobelts and other bulk titanates represented by trititanate Ha₂Ti₃O₇ and lepidocrocite-type H_0.7 Ti_1.825□_0.175 O_4.0.·H₂ O were also presented.