Biomolecule-assisted synthesis of defect-mediated Cd1−xZnxS/MoS2/graphene hollow spheres for highly efficient hydrogen evolution

Abstract

Moderate efficiency and the utilization of noble metal cocatalysts are the key factors that restrict the large-scale application of photocatalytic hydrogen production. To develop more efficient photocatalysts based on earth abundant elements, either a new material strategy or a fundamental understanding of the semiconductor/cocatalyst interfaces is highly desirable. In this paper, we studied the feasibility of in situ formation of defect-rich cocatalysts on graphene-based photocatalysts. A facile biomolecule-assisted strategy was used to self-assmble Cd_1−xZn_xS/MoS₂/graphene hollow spheres. The defect-mediated cocatalyst and synergetic charge transfer around heterostructured interfaces exhibit a significant impact on the visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity of multicomponent solid solutions. With engineered interfacial defects, Cd_0.8Zn_0.2S/MoS₂/graphene hollow spheres exhibited a 63-fold improved H₂ production rate, which was even 2 and 3.8 times higher than those of CdS/MoS₂/graphene hollow spheres and Cd_0.8Zn_0.2S/Pt. Therefore, our research provides a promising approach for the rational design of high-efficiency and low-cost photocatalysts for solar fuel production.