This paper examines the growth of anatase TiO2 coating on a wood surface through the hydrolysis of tetrabutyl orthotitanate (TBOT) in different conditions, using a controlled hydrothermal method at low temperatures. Energy disperse X-ray analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis con. firm that the growth of TiO2 coating on a wood surface is bonded to hydrocarbon chains. Several reaction factors that influence the morphologies and amount of TiO2 present on wood surface were also investigated. As observed from the scanning electron microscopy images, the morphology and content of TiO2 grown on a wood surface could be controlled under appropriate reaction conditions. Approximately 32.6% TiO2 content on a wood surface could be obtained when specific conditions are applied. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.