Dual-function catalysis: linking photo- and electrocatalytic behavior in In2O3/TiO2 composites

Abstract

Efficient catalysts for both photo- and electrocatalytic applications are essential for sustainable technologies. The combination of In₂O₃ and TiO₂ offers tunable structural and electronic properties, supporting multifunctional catalytic applications. We prepare nanostructured In₂O₃/TiO₂ composites with varying oxide ratios and at different temperatures. The resulting powders and thin films are thoroughly characterized to assess their structure, crystallinity, and surface area. Photocatalytic activity depends strongly on composition, with 70–90 wt% TiO₂ samples showing the highest enhancement in hydroxyl radical generation and rhodamine B degradation, attributed to increased specific surface area and improved charge separation. In oxygen electroreduction, catalytic activity increases for TiO₂ and In₂O₃ as the annealing temperature rises from 200 to 450 °C. Formation of composites between the two oxides does not result in a significant inprovement in electrocatalytic activity. These findings highlight the potential of In₂O₃/TiO₂ systems as tailored and multifunctional catalysts for environmental remediation and energy conversion.