Architecture of the CdIn2S4/graphene nano-heterostructure for solar hydrogen production and anode for lithium ion battery

Abstract

The facile single step template free synthesis of hierarchical CdIn₂S₄/graphene nano-heterostructures with multi-functionality as a photocatalyst for solar hydrogen production and as an anode for lithium ion battery has been demonstrated. The nanopetals of CdIn₂S₄ are decorated on the graphene which shows extended visible light absorption. Hence, the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution study is performed under solar light. The nano-heterostructure showed excellent photocatalytic activity (4495 μmol h⁻¹ per 0.2 g) for hydrogen production. The enhanced photocatalytic activity is attributed to the inhibition of charge carrier recombination due to graphene which acts as an excellent electron collector and transporter. Furthermore, the use of nano-heterostructures as an anode for Li-ion batteries demonstrated very high reversible capacity i.e. 678 mA h g⁻¹ which on cycling, kept at 608 mA h g⁻¹ at an applied current of 150 mA g⁻¹ for 225 cycles and exhibited good rate capability. The excellent Li-storage properties of the nano-heterostructures is associated with the hierarchical flower like structure, high porosity of CdIn₂S₄ and the fast electron kinetics offered by the graphene support.