In situ growth of CdS spherical nanoparticles/Ti3C2 MXene nanosheet heterojunction with enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen evolution

Solar photocatalytic hydrogen production is considered as a potential solution to alleviate the current global energy situation. In this work, a novle CdS spherical nanoparticles/Ti3C2 MXene nanosheet (CM) heterostructure photocatalyst was prepared by in situ growth method, which has the characteristics of high efficiency and stability. The results showed that the CM sample has regular morphology and size. When compared with pure CdS, its specific surface area increased and the hydrogen evolution performance also greatly improved. Among them, the hydrogen evolution of CM-0.06 is 1295 mu mol center dot g(-1)center dot h(-1) (lambda > 420 nm), which is 7 times that of spherical CdS, and it also showed stronger stability. Tight interface contact can promote the transfer and migration of photo-generated carriers, and the effective separation of electron hole pairs can enhance the absorption of visible light. In addition, Ti3C2 MXene acts as an electron trap can further accelerate the separation of photogenerated electrons and holes. The synergistic effect between semiconductor CdS and Ti3C2 MXene nanosheets, which provides a new idea for the design of more stable and efficient CdS-based photocatalysts.

Automated summary

A novel CdS spherical nanoparticles/Ti3C2 MXene nanosheet heterostructure photocatalyst with high efficiency and stability was prepared, showing improved hydrogen evolution performance compared to pure CdS. The synergistic effect between semiconductor CdS and Ti3C2 MXene nanosheets provides a new idea for the design of more stable and efficient CdS-based photocatalysts.