The fabrication of 1D/2D CdS nanorod@Ti3C2 MXene composites for good photocatalytic activity of hydrogen generation and ammonia synthesis

In this study, the unique 1D/2D CdS nanorod@Ti3C2 MXene (CdS@Ti3C2) composites photocatalysts are prepared by a hydrothermal strategy. The suitable band structure and superior electronic reduction capability of CdS in CdS@Ti3C2 composites are achieved, efficiently prolong the light absorption range and enhance photocatalytic performance of CdS. Moreover, Ti3C2 MXene NSs with good electronic transfer capability can prevent photoinduced carrier recombination, and the accordion-like multilayer can provide more reactive sites. The best sample of CdS@Ti3C2 with 15 mg Ti3C2 MXene adding amount exhibits super good photocatalytic H-2 evolution rate (63.53 mu mol h(-1)), and photocatalytic nitrogen fixation rate of 293.06 mu mol L-1 h(-1). The corresponding apparent quantum efficiencies (AQE) are 2.28% and 7.88%, respectively, higher than those of pure CdS NRs and CdS@Pt (0.1 wt%). Besides, CdS@Ti3C2-15 composite shows good long-term stability under simulated sunlight irradiation.

Automated summary

The study prepared unique 1D/2D CdS nanorod@Ti3C2 MXene composites photocatalysts, achieving suitable band structure and superior electronic reduction capability of CdS to enhance photocatalytic performance. Ti3C2 MXene NSs with good electronic transfer capability prevented carrier recombination, while the multilayer structure provided more reactive sites. The CdS@Ti3C2-15 composite showed excellent photocatalytic performance, with higher AQE and long-term stability.