Enhanced photocatalytic CO2 reduction via single-atom Au anchored on ZnIn2S4 nanosheets

Abstract

In this study, we systematically investigated the effect of single-atom gold (Au) loaded on ZnIn2S4 nanosheets on the photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2). Utilizing a photodeposition method, we successfully dispersed single-atom Au uniformly on the surface of ZnIn2S4 nanosheets. Under simulated sunlight irradiation, the Au-loaded catalyst demonstrated a higher yield and selectivity in the CO2 reduction reaction compared to the pure ZnIn2S4 nanosheets. Surface photovoltage testing revealed that the addition of Au significantly enhanced the separation efficiency of photo-generated charge carriers, thereby improving the photocatalytic efficiency. Density functional theory calculations indicated that the loading of single-atom Au reduced the reaction energy barrier from CO2 to CO, enhancing the selectivity of photocatalytic CO2 reduction. This research not only developed an efficient catalyst for CO2 reduction but also provided deep insights into the mechanism of single-atom catalysts in the photocatalytic CO2 reduction process through extensive experimental and theoretical analysis.