Enhanced performance of {0 0 1} facets dominated mesoporous TiO2 photocatalyst composed of high-reactive nanocrystals and mesoporous spheres

Highlights: ► Mesoporous {0 0 1} facets dominated TiO2 sheets were prepared. ► High reactive nanocrystals and mesoporous spheres were introduced. ► High specific surface area was obtained. ► The role of N and F species were analyzed. ► The superior structure is very favorable for photocatalysis. - Abstract: {0 0 1} facets dominated mesoporous anatase TiO2 sheets composed of mesoporous spheres and high reactive nanocrystals with exposed {0 0 1} facets were synthesized successfully with NH4F as the capping agent by the hydrothermal and heat treatment method. The photocatalyst exhibits a high specific surface area and a higher photocatalytic activity than Degussa P25 and pure TiO2 nanosheets in the degradation of organic dyes under UV irradiation.