Optimization of TiO 2 Mesoporous Photoanodes Prepared by Inkjet Printing and Low-Temperature Plasma Processing

This study describes and evaluates a low-temperature method for ambient-air plasma fabrication of hybrid titania/silica nanocomposite mesoporous layers that generate and transport electrons. The mesoporous layers were prepared using wet coating with a dispersion consisting of prefabricated titania nanoparticles and polysiloxane binder, subsequently inkjet-printed and plasma-processed by diffuse coplanar surface barrier discharge, to form an almost inorganic titania/silica coating of the high specific surface. The study demonstrates approaches to optimization of the coating, using various TiO 2 nanoparticles, and of the plasma processing, together with the economic significance of printing and plasma processing—an approach compatible with processes envisaged for the manufacture of flexible electronics.