Self-assembled TiO(2) nanotube arrays by anodization of titanium in diethylene glycol: approach to extended pore widening.

We report on the formation of titanium dioxide nanotube arrays having the largest known pore size, approximately 350 nm diameter. The nanotube arrays are synthesized by Ti foil anodization in a diethylene glycol electrolyte containing low (0.5-2%) concentrations of hydrofluoric acid. The large pore size nanotube arrays are achieved with extended anodization durations of approximately 120 h, with the anodization duration showing a more significant effect on pore diameter than the anodization voltage. It appears that the combined effects of hydrofluoric acid content and anodization duration determine the lateral etching rate of the nanotubes, leading to the larger pore size nanotubes.