Efficient charge separation between ZnIn2S4 nanoparticles and polyaniline nanorods for nitrogen photofixation

Here, novel core-shell polyaniline@ZnIn2S4 (PANI@ZnIn2S4) heterostructure photocatalysts have been prepared by simple synthesis process, and the ZnIn2S4 nanoparticles grow directly on the surface of PANI nanorods with forming a strong interaction between two semiconductors. The PANI@ZnIn2S4 heterostructure composites show extraordinary photocatalytic effects for the reduction of nitrogen in natural environment. The PANI@ZnIn2S4 (ZnIn2S4 15 wt%) composite reveals the highest catalytic activity, and the maximum efficiency for ammonia generation can reach 290 μmol L-1 h-1, which is 10.3 times as high as that of pure ZnIn2S4. This superior photocatalytic performance of PANI@ZnIn2S4 is ascribed to the increased light absorption capacity, rich reactive sites and strong nitrogen activation ability. In particular, the efficient interfacial interaction between the ZnIn2S4 nanoparticles and PANI nanorods facilitates the separation and transfer efficiency of photogenerated electrons and holes. This work provides an effective approach to construct novel photocatalytic systems for efficient photocatalytic nitrogen fixation.