Development of a highly stable IrO2-RuO2-Ta2O5/Ti with fluorine doped nanotube interlayer

Fluorine-doped titanium oxide nanotubes were studied as a coating interlayer for IrO2-RuO2-Ta2O5/Ti to retard the passivation of titanium substrates and enhance anode life and corrosion characteristics. Nanotubes were produced by anodizing the substrate at 10, 20, and 40 V in HF, and their effect on the microstructure of the coating was assessed using FE-SEM. Additionally, EIS and ALT measurements were conducted to investigate this coating's electrochemical behavior. Results showed that titanium oxide nanotubes with a smaller diameter would improve the performance and increase the life of the anode (IrO2-RuO2-Ta2O5/Ti). Likewise, the diameter of the nanotubes demonstrates a direct relationship with anodizing voltage. Furthermore, high voltages during anodizing resulted in an etched surface that was not ideal for an interlayer. All an all, it was concluded that the layer anodized at 10 V, with smaller-diameter tubes and a higher number of walls, could result in a product with high corrosion resistance and 80 % excess lifetime compared to a bare titanium substrate. This study provides valuable insights for engineering applications, demonstrating the potential for enhanced anode design in corrosion-sensitive environments in electrochemical engineering, water treatment, or fuel cells and electrolyzers where durability of the anodes are crucial. [Display omitted] •Fluorine-doped TiO2 nanotubes enhance anode life by retarding titanium passivation.•Nanotube diameter increases with anodizing voltage (10–40 V in HF).•Smaller-diameter nanotubes improve corrosion resistance and anode durability.•10 V anodized layers offer 80 % longer lifetime than bare titanium substrates.•Results, support improved anode design for electrochemical engineering applications.