Photocatalysis under shell: Co@BN core–shell composites for efficient EY-sensitized photocatalytic hydrogen evolution

Abstract

The Co@BN core–shell nanostructure of Co core and boron nitride (BN) shell was prepared through a facile one-step thermal treatment. The as-prepared Co@BN nanocomposites exhibited excellent dye-sensitized photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity (13.78 mmol h−1 g−1) with visible light and the apparent quantum yield was 1.15%. The enhanced adsorption of EY on the BN shell and the Co/BN Schottky junction facilitate the tandem transfer of photo-generated carriers to the Co surface. Moreover, the core–shell interface serves as a nanoreactor boosting the reduction of H+ to H2 on the Co surface. Additionally, the magnetic recyclability makes Co@BN favorable for its practical application. This work extends the application of the “photocatalysis under shell” and has potential in dye-sensitized solar cell.