Highly efficient photocatalytic H 2 evolution over Ni‐doped Mn 0. 5 Cd 0 . 5 S nanorods under visible light

Abstract

Developing photocatalysts with excellent H2 evolution performance has been an urgent concern for practical application. Herein, Ni-doped Mn0.5Cd0.5S was prepared using one-step alkaline hydrothermal strategy. Investigation shows that doping Ni element can enhance the performance of Mn0.5Cd0.5S. 3% Ni-doped Mn0.5Cd0.5S can obtain the highest rate at 108.3 mmol g−1 h−1 (λ > 420 nm), and nearly 14.4 times more than undoped counterpart (7.5 mmol g−1 h−1). The defect level formed in Mn0.5Cd0.5S after doping Ni can make the band gap decrease to 2.35 eV and act as electrons capture center, which promoting charge separation and transfer. Meanwhile, the range of light absorption become wider. This research provides a promising way to enhance the catalytic activity for solid solution through simple element doping.