Ultra-thin Cu2S nanosheets: effective cocatalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen production

Abstract

Herein, we achieved successful synthesis of 2D Cu₂S nanosheets (NS) with a thickness of 1.2 nm by a novel strategy. The key to obtain ultra-thin Cu₂S NS was the use of a unique sulfur precursor which not only supplied sulfur in a controlled manner, but also directed the formation of a 2D structure. The as-prepared Cu₂S NS were proved to be effective cocatalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen production. The H₂ production rate of Cu₂S NS/TiO₂ reached 1430.4 μmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹, which was 4.9 times higher than that of TiO₂.