Biomolecule-assisted self-assembly of CdS/MoS2/graphene hollow spheres as high-efficiency photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution without noble metals

Despite the great potential of hollow nanomaterials for energy applications, most approaches rely on hard template-based multistep process for tailoring the interior structure, while the template-free self-assembly synthesis still remains challenging. In this work, we developed a facile biomolecule-assisted one-pot strategy toward the fabrication of novel CdS/MoS2/graphene hollow spheres. The molecular structure of cysteine was found to be crucial for controlling the morphology of composites. Due to the unique hollow-shaped structure and improved charge separation ability, CdS/5 wt% MpS(2)/2 wt% graphene hollow spheres exhibited superior high activity for visible-light-driven water splitting without noble metals. The synergistic effects of graphene and MoS2 on the photocatalytic hydrogen production were further investigated by time-resolved fluorescence, electrochemical impedance and Mott-Schottky measurements. This method opens promising prospects for the rational design of high-efficiency and low-cost photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution based on graphene and MoS2. (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier B.V.