Enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen evolution under visible light over Cd x Zn1-x S solid solution by ruthenium doping

Cd (x) Zn1-x S and Ru3+ doped Ru(m)/Cd0.5Zn0.5S photocatalysts were prepared by a simple hydrothermal method, and characterized by X-ray diffraction, UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy and electrochemistry techniques. Their photoactivities were evaluated by hydrogen evolution from aqueous solution containing Na2S and Na2SO3 as a hole scavenger under visible light (lambda a parts per thousand yen 420 nm) irradiation. Ru3+ doping enhances the photocatalytic activity markedly. It was found that 0.10 mol% Ru3+ doped Cd0.5Zn0.5S photocatalyst showed the highest activity. The reason for the positive effects of Ru3+ was discussed.