In situ configuration of dual S-scheme BP/(Ti3C2Tx@TiO2) heterojunction for broadband spectrum solar-driven photocatalytic H2 evolution in pure water

Abstract

Artificial photocatalysis with high-efficiency is a promising route for storing sustainable energy from water splitting. Whereas it is challenging to broaden the solar-spectrum responsive window for harvesting high level of conversion. Herein, based on the band-matching engineering theory, a design of dual S-Scheme heterojunction system is proposed and established in a BP/(Ti3C2Tx@TiO2) composite photocatalyst. The complementary light response region between TiO2 and BP realizes the extension of solar energy utilization over a broad absorption window. Furthermore, this specific band-matching configuration endows spatially long-lived charge carriers with greater accumulation on the divided sub-systems, thereby maintaining the sufficient potential energy capacity associated with excellent photocatalytic properties (H2 evolution rate of 564.8 μmol h−1 g−1 and AQE of 2.7% at 380 nm in pure water). This work describes a promising protocol of designing advanced broadband light-activated photocatalytic systems for solar-chemical energy conversion applications.