Enhanced solar-driven photocatalytic hydrogen production, dye degradation, and supercapacitor functionality using MoS2–TiO2 nanocomposite

Abstract

In our current study, we've devised a promising method to overcome the limitations of nanostructured titanium dioxide (TiO2) with molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanoflowers synthesized through a cost-effective and straightforward solvothermal process. The resulting heterostructures function as highly efficient photocatalysts and supercapacitors. The synthesized MoS2–TiO2 nanocomposite demonstrated exceptional performance in various applications, including efficient hydrogen (H2) evolution, dye degradation, and enhanced supercapacitor performance. The combination of MoS2, a two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide, and TiO2, a wide-bandgap metal oxide semiconductor, addresses critical challenges in clean energy, environmental remediation, and energy storage. Photocatalytic studies revealed that the MoS2–TiO2 catalysts exhibited the highest activity for hydrogen production, with a rate of 137.93 μmol h−1 g−1, which is three times greater than that of pure MoS2. Additionally, the MoS2–TiO2 nanocomposite demonstrated superior electrochemical performance, with a specific capacitance of 638 F/g. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showed that the charge transfer kinetics were comparable, highlighting the positive impact of TiO2 without significantly increasing resistance. The MoS2–TiO2 nanocomposite emerges as a transformative material with multifaceted applications, showcasing its versatility in addressing global challenges related to clean energy and environmental sustainability.