Design and synthesis of ZnCo₂O₄/CdS for substantially improved photocatalytic hydrogen production

Abstract

In this study, the hydrogen evolution performance of CdS nanorods is improved using ZnCo₂O₄. ZnCo₂O₄ nanospheres are synthesized using the hydrothermal and calcination methods, and CdS nanorods are synthesized using the solvothermal method. From the perspective of morphology, numerous CdS nanorods are anchored on the ZnCo₂O₄ microspheres. According to the experimental results of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution, the final hydrogen evolution capacity of 7417.5 μmol∙g^–1∙h^–1 is slightly more than two times that of the single CdS, which proves the feasibility of our study. Through various characterization methods, it is proved that the composite sample has suitable optoelectronic properties. In addition, ZnCo₂O₄ itself exhibits good conductivity and low impedance, which shortens the charge-transfer path. Overall, the introduction of ZnCo₂O₄ expands the adsorption range of light and improves the performance of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. This design can provide reference for developing high-efficiency photocatalysts.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

ZnCo₂O₄ nanosphere / CdS nanorods / photocatalytic hydrogen evolution

References

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Acknowledgement

This work was financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 22062001) and the graduate innovation project of North Minzu University (Grant No. YCX22166).

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