Enhancing Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution through S-Scheme Heterojunction Construction
Key Ideas
- Construction of CdS quantum dots on In2O3 nanotubes via electrostatic self-assembly forms an S-scheme heterojunction for enhanced hydrogen generation.
- The S-scheme heterojunction facilitates effective separation and transfer of photogenerated carriers, significantly boosting photocatalytic performance.
- In-situ XPS and DFT calculations confirm the enhanced carrier separation mechanism in CdS-In2O3 composites, offering valuable insights for future composite photocatalyst design.
The article discusses the development of an S-scheme heterojunction between CdS quantum dots (QDs) and In2O3 hollow nanotubes to enhance photocatalytic hydrogen production. CdS, known for its suitable bandgap and adjustable surface structure, faces challenges such as photogenerated carrier recombination and susceptibility to photocorrosion. The S-scheme heterojunction construction allows for distinct oxidation and reduction reactions, promoting spatial separation of charges and enhancing photocatalytic activity. Research by Associate Professor Kang-Qiang Lu successfully demonstrated the improved hydrogen production activity of CdS-In2O3 composites. The formation of the heterojunction suppresses carrier recombination, promoting electron separation and transfer, thereby enhancing both activity and stability. Characterizations through XPS and DFT calculations further confirmed the enhanced carrier separation in CdS-In2O3 composites. This study sheds light on the significance of S-scheme heterojunctions in photocatalytic H2 production, providing valuable insights for designing effective composite photocatalysts.