Construction of NiPx/MoS2/NiS/CdS composite to promote photocatalytic H2 production from glucose solution

Constructing multi-component photocatalyst is an efficient method to achieve high photocatalytic efficiency. In this work, CdS nanorods modified with NiS nanoparticles are first prepared to improve the photocatalytic performance, as no H-2 generates on single NiS or CdS catalyst from glucose solution. MoS2 and NiPx, as the cocatalysts for H-2 production, are loaded on the surface of NiS/CdS composite. With step-by-step solvothermal synthesis, four components (CdS, NiS, Mo2S, and NiPx) are fully combined in the NiPx/MoS2/NiS/CdS nanorods, generating many intimate contact interfaces. Moreover the optimized NiPx/MoS2/NiS/CdS performs a significantly increased photocatalytic activity, with H-2 production rate at 297 mu mol h(-1) g(-1). The synergistic effects of heterostructure (NiS/CdS) and cocatalysts (MoS2 and NiPx) are the main reasons in enhancing photocatalytic performance, which facilitate the separation of charge carriers and prolong their lifetimes. This work provides an effective strategy to design photocatalysts with multiple components and fast charge separation for highly efficient H-2 production.

Automated summary

This research successfully combined NiS-modified CdS nanorods with MoS2 and NiPx cocatalysts to achieve efficient H2 production. The synergistic effects of heterostructure and cocatalysts are key factors in enhancing photocatalytic performance.