MoC@NC cocatalyst-modified ZnIn2S4 with strong 2D/2D hetero-interface interaction for efficient H2 evolution

The development of low-cost and high-efficiency non-noble metal cocatalysts is one of the important factors in promoting the separation of photogenerated carriers. In this study, we report a stable and highly active MoC@NC/ZnIn2S4 heterostructure for photocatalytic H-2 evolution under visible light. The optimized MoC@NC/ZnIn2S4 composite displays an excellent photocatalytic H-2 evolution rate of 45.4 mu mol h(-1), which was 8.3 times higher than that of ZnIn2S4. Its apparent quantum efficiency reached 51.5% at 420 nm. Moreover, the photocatalyst exhibits excellent stability and recycling capabilities. This remarkable activity can be ascribed to the modification of MoC@NC onto the ZnIn2S4 surface by forming an intimate contact interface, which can suppress the recombination of photogenerated carriers, consequently leading to superior photocatalytic H-2 evolution performance. This study indicated that MoC@NC can act as an outstanding cocatalyst for promoting ZnIn2S4 photocatalytic performance.

Automated summary

This study reports a stable and highly active MoC@NC/ZnIn2S4 heterostructure for photocatalytic H-2 evolution under visible light. The optimized composite exhibits excellent photocatalytic performance with a high H-2 evolution rate and apparent quantum efficiency. The modification of MoC@NC onto the ZnIn2S4 surface is the key factor for achieving superior photocatalytic activity.