Cu2O based NiCo2O4/GDY double S-scheme heterojunction for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen production

Abstract

Graphdiyne (GDY) is flourishing in the field of photocatalysis due to its high conductivity and enhancement of electron transfer. Electron transport can be expedited when GDY is used as a catalytic support. Herein, a GDY/NiCo2O4 composite photocatalyst was constructed in situ using organic compounds and bimetallic oxides. Furthermore, Cu2O was introduced into the GDY/NiCo2O4 interface through interfacial engineering, which effectively enhanced the activity of the catalyst. Electrochemistry and fluorescence spectroscopy demonstrated that the load of Cu2O can reduce the electron transfer resistance and decrease the photogenerated carrier recombination carrier rate. The formation of S-scheme heterojunction formed by Cu2O, GDY and NiCo2O4 can accelerate the electron transfer through band bending and internal electric field and improve the reducing activity of the catalyst. The outcomes of this work demonstrate the potential applications of Cu2O and GDY in photocatalysis and provide insights into the construction of high-performance photocatalysts.