Recent Advances in the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction of ZnxCd1-xS-Based Photocatalysts

Efficient solar-to-hydrogen (STH) conversion through water splitting relies on the development of low-cost photocatalysts with high photoactivity and stability. ZnxCd1-xS, an emerging metal sulfide (MS) solid solution for STH, possesses several unique advantages, such as a tunable bandgap, abundant elemental constituents, and high stability. Although ZnxCd1-xS-based photocatalysts are investigated for hydrogen evolution, their photoactivity still has to be enhanced for commercial applications. Herein, the design concept, crystal and band structure properties, and original photoactivity of ZnxCd1-xS are briefly introduced, and ZnxCd1-xS solutions with different morphologies and structures, modifications, synthesis methods, and vacancy engineering are then discussed. Subsequently, the combination of ZnxCd1-xS and cocatalysts and several representative ZnxCd1-xS-based heterojunction photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution are reviewed and discussed in detail. Finally, the unsolved issues in the application of ZnxCd1-xS photocatalysts and their potential solutions for developing advanced ZnxCd1-xS-based photocatalysts are discussed.

Automated summary

Efficient solar-to-hydrogen conversion relies on the development of low-cost photocatalysts. ZnxCd1-xS, a metal sulfide solid solution, has unique advantages but its photoactivity should be enhanced for commercial applications. This article introduces the design concept, properties, and synthesis methods of ZnxCd1-xS, discusses its combination with cocatalysts and its application in heterojunction photocatalysts, and provides potential solutions for improving its performance.