A new photocatalyst titania:activated carbon (TiO 2 :AC) composite was prepared by impregnating anatase type TiO 2 nanoparticulates onto the activated carbon surface through a mild hydrothermal route. A varied ratio of TiO 2 to AC was considered for impregnation. As-prepared TiO 2 :AC composite was characterized by various techniques such as powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), BET surface area and positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). Powder XRD results showed the persisting nature of anatase phase of TiO 2 deposited on the activated carbon surface. The BET, FTIR and PALS results revealed the impregnation threshold. The TiO 2 particulates were well adhered and uniformly dispersed on the carbon surface as confirmed by SEM.