Quaternary semiconductor Cu2ZnSnS4 loaded with MoS2 as a co-catalyst for enhanced photo-catalytic activity

Abstract

Quaternary Cu₂ZnSnS₄ (CZTS) loaded with 1% MoS₂ shows excellent photo-catalytic activity for water oxidation, leading to efficient H₂ generation (AQY 22.67%), as well as in the degradation of an organic pollutant. The photo-catalysts were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, UV-Vis absorbance and fluorescence spectroscopy. Taking Rhodamine B as a model system, the apparent rate constant for CZTS–MoS₂ (i.e. k_app ∼ 0.066 min⁻¹) is nearly two-fold higher in comparison to CZTS (k_app ∼ 0.032 min⁻¹). Various scavenger tests have been performed to establish the role of O₂˙⁻ and ˙OH scavengers in the photo-degradation of a pollutant.