Construction of ZnIn2S4/CdS/PdS S-Scheme Heterostructure for Efficient Photocatalytic H2 Production

It is facing a tremendous challenge to develop the desirable hybrids for photocatalytic H-2 generation by integrating the advantages of a single semiconductor. Herein, an all-sulfide ZnIn2S4/CdS/PdS heterojunction is constructed for the first time, where CdS and PdS nanoparticles anchor in the spaces of ZnIn2S4 micro-flowers due to the confinement effects. The morphology engineering can guarantee rapid charge transfer owing to the short carrier migration distances and the luxuriant reactive sites provided by ZnIn2S4. The S-scheme mechanism between ZnIn2S4 and CdS assisted by PdS cocatalyst is testified by in situ irradiated X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), where the electrons and holes move in reverse driven by work function difference and built-in electric field at the interfaces. The optimal ZnIn2S4/CdS/PdS performs a glaring photocatalytic activity of 191.9 mu mol h(-1) (10 mg of catalyst), and the largest AQE (apparent quantum efficiency) can reach a high value of 26.26%. This work may afford progressive tactics to design multifunctional photocatalysts.

Automated summary

Developing desirable hybrids for photocatalytic H2 generation by integrating the advantages of a single semiconductor is a tremendous challenge. In this study, an all-sulfide ZnIn2S4/CdS/PdS heterojunction is constructed for the first time, demonstrating rapid charge transfer and luxuriant reactive sites. The S-scheme mechanism between ZnIn2S4 and CdS assisted by PdS cocatalyst is proven, resulting in a glaring photocatalytic activity and high apparent quantum efficiency. This work may provide progressive tactics to design multifunctional photocatalysts.