Synthesis and photocatalytic properties of layered HNbWO6/(Pt, Cd0.8Zn0.2S) nanocomposites

HNbWO6/(Pt,Cd0.8Zn0.2S) nanocomposites have been fabricated by successive intercalation reactions of HNbWO6 with [Pt(NH3)(4)]Cl-2 aqueous solution, with n-C3H7NH2/n-heptane mixed solution, and the Cd(MeCO2)(2)-Zn(MeCO2)(2) mixture in aqueous solution, followed by the reaction between Cd-2-Zn-2 and H2S in the interlayer of HNbWO6. The gallery height of HNbWO6/CdS*, HNbWO6/Cd0.8Zn0.2S*, HNbWO6/CdS, HNbWO6/Cd0.8Zn0.2S, HNbWO6/(Pt, CdS) and HNbWO6/(Pt,Cd0.8Zn0.2S) is less than 0.5 nm in each case. HNbWO6/(Pt,Cd0.8Zn0.2S) series nanocomposites show a broad reflectance over ca. 380-580 nm and are capable of efficient hydrogen evolution under the irradiation of visible light in the presence of Na2S as a sacrificial donor. The photocatalytic activities of HNbWO6/CdS and HNbWO6/Cd0.8Zn0.2S nanocomposites are superior to those of unsupported CdS and Cd0.8Zn0.2S and are enhanced by the the co-incorporation of Pt.