A dual-interfacial system with well-defined spatially separated redox-sites for boosting photocatalytic overall H2S splitting

Integration of high activity, selectivity, and stability is urgently desired to achieve more ideal photocatalysts. Herein, we reported the rational design of MoS2-MnS@(InxCu1-x)2S3 (M-M@IC) catalysts with dual interface to integrate separated redox sites for boosting photocatalytic hydrogen sulphide (H2S) splitting and the resource utilization of sacrificial reagents (Na2S/Na2SO3). The spatially separated reduction (MnS) and oxidation (In2S3) sites in MnS/In2S3 heterojunction, on which MoS2 and Cu were selectively loaded, can drive electrons and holes near the surface to flow along opposite directions, while the heterojunction between MnS and In2S3 inhibits the bulk charge recombination. Furthermore, the introduction of Cu atoms creates a d-band center, which favours mass diffusion of reactants/products species and greatly facilitates sunlight response. The MoS2 serves to provide abundant sites for proton reduction due to the unsaturated-sulfur-edge-rich (US-rich) nature. As a result, the M-M@IC shows a state-of-the-art visible-light photocatalytic H2 evolution rate (126.5 mmol g-1h- 1), inspiring stability of >50 h, and nearly 100% selectivity toward value-added Na2S2O3 production under optimized condition. This work opens up new opportunities for the construction and design of spatially separated catalytic site in photocatalysts.

Automated summary

This study reports the rational design of MoS2-MnS@(InxCu1-x)2S3 (M-M@IC) catalysts, integrating separated redox sites for boosting photocatalytic H2S splitting and the resource utilization of sacrificial reagents. By introducing Cu atoms and MoS2, the photocatalytic activity and light response were enhanced, opening up new opportunities for the construction and design of spatially separated catalytic sites in photocatalysts.