Abstract
MoS2 quantum dots (QDs)/CdS core/shell nanospheres with a hierarchical heterostructure have been prepared by a simple microwave hydrothermal method. The as-prepared samples are characterized by XRD, TEM, SEM, UV-VIS diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS) and N2-sorption in detail. The photocatalytic activities of the samples are evaluated by water splitting into hydrogen. Results show that the as-prepared MoS2 QDs/CdS core/shell nanospheres with a diameter of about 300 nm are composed of the shell of CdS nanorods and the core of MoS2 QDs. For the photocatalytic reaction, the samples exhibit a high stability of the photocatalytic activity and a much higher hydrogen evolution rate than the pure CdS, the composite prepared by a physical mixture, and the Pt-loaded CdS sample. In addition, the stability of CdS has also been greatly enhanced. The effect of the reaction time on the formations of nanospheres, the photoelectric properties and the photocatalytic activities of the samples has been investigated. Finally, a possible photocatalytic reaction process has also been proposed.
Highlights
In recent years, photocatalytic technology has been extensively used for producing H2 utilizing solar energy
The morphology of MoS2 quantum dots (QDs) was determined by a Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) technique
The results clearly indicate that MoS2 QDs could function as a more efficient co-catalyst for CdS photocatalyst compared to Pt
Summary
Photocatalytic technology has been extensively used for producing H2 utilizing solar energy. The sulfide anion can be oxidized by photogenerated holes This photocorrosion effect leads to most CdS structures being highly unstable as photocatalysts and, limits their practical application [15,16]. To solve these problems, many approaches have been proposed to enhance the photoreductive activity and photostability of CdS, like preparing quantized CdS nanocrystallites, designing controllable morphologies, depositing noble metals, preparing colloidal CdS and forming. In contrast to the widely-used Pt particle co-catalyst, the various morphologies of MoS2 can be controlled by using hydrothermal methods or high temperature processes under H2 S atmosphere These MoS2 structures showed high co-catalytic activities for hydrogen evolution [32,33]. The probable influencing factors for the enhanced stability and activity of CdS have been investigated
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