"Effect of Tuning Oxygen Partial Pressure on Titanium Oxynitride Thin Films for Photocatalysis" 

Natalia Garcia Godinez, MSE PhD Candidate 

Advisor: Professor Haiyan Wang

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ABSTRACT

Titanium oxynitride (TiNO) thin films have emerged as promising photocatalysts for water splitting due to their tunable electronic properties. The oxygen partial pressure during the synthesis of TiNO thin films plays a crucial role in determining their structural, optical, and electrical properties, ultimately impacting their photocatalytic performance. This review dives into the oxidation of titanium nitride (TiN) and the influence of oxygen partial pressure on the composition and properties of TiNO thin films for their potential for water splitting applications. These materials, synthesized through techniques such as pulsed laser deposition, offer promise for photocatalytic applications. It is possible to optimize defect density, grain size, and electronic structure of TiNO by carefully controlling the N/O ratio, which could lead to enhanced light absorption, efficient charge carrier separation, and enhanced catalytic activity for water splitting. Challenges relating to achieving optimal stoichiometry and minimizing defect density continue to exist. By addressing these challenges and optimizing synthesis process, TiNO thin films can be developed as efficient and sustainable materials of hydrogen evolution reaction and/or oxygen evolution reaction for efficient water splitting.