Pomegranate-like ZnxCd1-xS@MoS2 nano-heterostructure as a stable and efficient photocatalyst for H2 evolution

Abstract A novel pomegranate-like ZnxCd1-xS@MoS2 core@shell nano-heterostructure was synthesized by using a facile one-pot solvothermal approach. In this architecture, the MoS2 nanosheet and well-dispersed ZnxCd1-xS nanospheres serve as peel and seeds, respectively. While maintaining the advantages of nanoscale materials, such as high ratio of surface to volume and a relatively short charge transportation path, this unique structure also provides some additional positive features for H2 generation application: (1) the intimate contact of MoS2 and ZnxCd1-xS contributes to the well-defined heterostructure formation and thus enhances H2 generation efficiency; (2) the MoS2 nanosheets with amorphous-like structures providing numerous active sites for H2 generation; (3) the multiple pore nano structure promotes mass transfer and allows the active site through exposure; (4) the coated MoS2 with superior chemical stability protects ZnxCd1-xS from photocorrosion and disaggregation. With those advantages, the ZnxCd1-xS@MoS2 heterostructure exhibits a high photocatalytic H2 evolution rate of 28.22 mmol g−1 h−1 far exceeding that of pristine ZnxCd1-xS by a factor of more than 56 and maintains long term stability with no obvious active deterioration in 24 h performance evaluation. Moreover, the one-pot synthesis of this heterostructure significantly saves time and energy, rendering it cost-efficiency. The demonstrated strategy here could have great significance in the design and fabrication of the low-cost and high-efficient heterogeneous photocatalysts.