Atomic-level tailoring ZnxCd1-xS photocatalysts: a paradigm for bridging structure-performance relationship toward solar chemical production

Abstract

Photocatalysis is deemed to be a prominent route to achieve sustainable energy production and promote environmental remediation through solar-to-chemical reactions, such as water splitting and carbon dioxide reduction. However, the large-scale photocatalysis is yet to be realized as photocatalysts are typically restrained by severe photocorrosion and limited light absorption ability. In the recent five years, zinc cadmium sulfide (ZCS) grabs attention of the researchers due to its fascinating flexibility in tuning its electrical and optical properties through structural modifications and morphology alterations. Efforts were put into identifying feasible modifications to further strengthen its light harvesting property and appropriate band structures. Herein, the refinement strategies are reviewed in detail, with the focus on pristine ZCS modifications and heterojunction formation through the coupling of various semiconductors or cocatalysts that endow improved light responses, band alignments and stability. Insights into the structure-function relationship of the ZCS photocatalysts will be unraveled to determine the key improvements of the performances. Challenges and new perspectives in the realm of photocatalysis are also revealed to propel the advancement of light-driven reactions in parallel to the effort of establishing global sustainable goals for a greener future.