Construction of one-dimensional ZnCdS(EDA)/Ni@NiO for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution

Abstract

The development of photocatalysts plays a pivotal role in facilitating the production of green hydrogen energy through water splitting. In this study, one-dimensional (1D) organic–inorganic ZnCdS(EDA)/Ni@NiO (EDA: ethylenediamine) nanorods were prepared by combining organic molecules of EDA into ZnCdS. The EDA molecule possesses two amino functional groups with strong electron-donating capacity, thereby facilitating electron transfer to ZnCdS(EDA)/Ni@NiO and enabling efficient hydrogen evolution through photocatalytic water splitting. The H₂ evolution rate of ZnCdS(EDA)/Ni@NiO was 159 μmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹ in the absence of sacrificial agents, and its H₂ evolution rate in the system with EDA as the sacrificial agent can reach 5760 μmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹. The combination of EDA, a S vacancy, and heterojunction was proved to be the main factor for improving the separation and transfer rate of photogenerated carriers. The incorporation of ZnCdS(EDA)/Ni@NiO enhances the participation of photogenerated electrons in the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction, thereby improving the overall photocatalytic activity. The synthesis of this one-dimensional composite catalyst holds great potential for advancing the development of efficient photocatalytic materials.