Umbrella-like CdS single crystal: exposed (002) facets and enhanced photocatalytic properties

We, herein, report the synthesis of umbrella-like CdS single crystal with exposed high-activity (002) facets first time by using a one-step hydrothermal method with cadmium acetate dihydrate (Cd(CH3COO)(2)center dot 2H(2)O) and ammonium thiocyanate (NH4SCN), and its possible growth mechanism was discussed. As a contrast, CdS nanoparticles with different morphologies were also synthesized. The morphology, composition and photocatalytic property of as-synthesized samples were determined by XRD, SEM, TEM, UV-Vis DRS, PL and photocurrent tests, respectively. The results show that umbrella-like CdS under UV (20 min) and visible light (80 min) irradiation, the removal rate of rhodamine B was as high as 99.1% and 99.3%, respectively. Moreover, even though the particle size of umbrella-like CdS particle is larger than as-synthesized CdS nanospheres, it still shows excellent photocatalytic degradation activity due to its exposed high-energy (002) facets. And its excellent application prospects are conceivable. The current work provides a new paradigm in material morphology design, especially in the construction of highly active surfaces for photocatalysis and photoelectric conversion.