Ni/Co-bimetallic organic framework-derived NiS/Co3S4/ZnCdS heterojunction for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen production

• Published in: Applied surface science 2023-07, Vol.624, p.157164, Article 157164
• Main Authors: Huang, Ruting, Cheng, Ling, Zhang, Yeyin, Huang, Xinyi, Huang, Zhenfang, Men, Zhengmin, Li, Shengjing, Shi, Xianyang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bimetallic organic framework; Heterojunction; NiS/Co3S4; Photocatalytic H2 production; Vapor deposition
• ISSN: 0169-4332; 1873-5584
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2023.157164

[Display omitted] •A novel Z-scheme NiS/Co3S4/ZnCdS photocatalyst was synthesized by vapour deposition method.•DFT calculations revealed that Z-scheme heterojunction can made electron transfer easier.•The highest H2 evolution rate of NiS/Co3S4/ZnCdS reached 98.6 mmol h−1 g−1.•NiS/Co3S4/ZnCdS exhibits more active sites and efficient absorption of visible light. Heterojunctions can effectively separate electrons (e−) and holes (h+) and achieve efficient photocatalytic water splitting to produce H2. Here, a simple strategy for the synthesis of a sulfide/solid solution heterojunction denoted by NiS/Co3S4/ZnCdS is proposed using a Ni/Co-bimetallic organic framework as a template. The heterostructure formed between ZnCdS and NiS/Co3S4 shortens the electron transport distance and greatly reduces the recombination of e− and h+. The resulting composites show excellent photocatalytic activity, with the highest H2 rate reaching 98.6 mmol h−1 g−1 in the presence of Na2SO3-Na2S as a sacrificial agent. The improvement in the photocatalytic ability of the composites can be attributed to the synergy between ZnCdS and NiS/Co3S4, which inhibits the agglomeration of ZnCdS nanoparticles to expose more active sites. This work offers a new strategy for the preparation of efficient photocatalysts for the utilization of clean energy.