Boosting photocatalytic hydrogen evolution by ultrafast charge transfer in a ZnS–CdS Z-scheme heterojunction with an intercalated Co9S8 layer

Abstract

A rational interfacial structure design strategy enables the construction of a Z-scheme photocatalyst by integrating a Co₉S₈ interlayer via cation exchange. This transforms a Type-I ZnS–CdS heterojunction into a Z-scheme ZnS–Co₉S₈–CdS heterojunction, enabling ultrafast charge transfer (0.198 ps). The optimized catalyst exhibits a high HER rate of 13 451 µmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹ and retains 97.1% efficiency after 24 hours.