Self-template synthesis of CdS/NiS_x heterostructured nanohybrids for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution

Photocatalytic hydrogen (H₂) evolution from water splitting is attracting enormous interest due to the possibility of converting solar energy into green chemical energy. The construction of highly efficient and stable photocatalysts is of importance and necessary for the development of photocatalytic water splitting technology. In this study, we have developed a self-template synthetic strategy for the preparation of heterostructured nanohybrids composed of ultrasmall CdS and NiS_x nanoparticles by using Cd(ii)-Ni(ii)-(4,4'-bipyridine) coordination polymers as the precursor and template. The CdS/NiS_x nanohybrids are comprised of integrated CdS and NiS_x nanoclusters in a heterostructure which function as highly efficient visible-light-driven H₂ evolution photocatalysts. The enhanced photocatalytic performance could be attributed to the formation of hetero-junctions between CdS and NiS_x nanoparticles inside the nanohybrids which could effectively improve the separation efficiency of photogenerated electrons and holes, and thus enhance the photocatalytic activity. This work can provide a new insight into the design and fabrication of other heterostructured photocatalysts for solar-driven water splitting or other photocatalytic applications.