A degradation device containing a bifunctionalized TiO2 film electrode and an anode electrode was described. The bifunctionalized TiO2 film electrode is composite of an area of dye-sensitized TiO2 film, electrolyte and counter electrode, which is similar to the structure of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Electrons and positive charges induced by visible light absorption of dyes could arrive at the degradation region of the bifunctionalized TiO2 film electrode and the anode electrode, respectively. Both could produce hydroxyl radicals ((OH)-O-center dot) to participate in the degradation reaction. The degradation efficiency was enhanced remarkably by an external potential. Meanwhile, the effects of dye-sensitized TiO2 film area and pH value on the degradation of 4-chlorophenol (4-CP) were tested. An insight into degradation pathway, plausible mechanism for 4-CP and degradation of other phenols were also discussed here. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.