In the present work, K(2)Ti(2)O(5), K(2)Ti(4)O(9) and K(2)Ti(6)O(13) are synthesized by solid state method. Their structures and morphologies are characterized by X-ray diffraction, Raman spectra and scanning electron microscopy. The binding energies of K, Ti and O in potassium titanates were then evaluated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and compared with those in K/TiO(2). Finally the corresponding K ion exchange properties are investigated by synthesizing NO oxidation catalysts with Co(NO(3))(2) precursor. It is found that the binding energy of K in K(2)Ti(2)O(5) is much higher than those in K(2)Ti(4)O(9) and K(2)Ti(6)O(13), and because of which, it shows quite different catalytic performances. Compared with other potassium titanates, the K in K(2)Ti(2)O(5) is much easier to be exchanged out. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.