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Efficient, Full Spectrum-Driven H2 Evolution Z-Scheme Co2P/CdS Photocatalysts with Co-S Bonds
Nan Li, Yunxuan Ding1, Jiaojiao Wu
1School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering , Queen's University Belfast , Belfast BT9 5AG , U.K.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|June 28, 2019
Summary
This study presents a novel Co2P/CdS photocatalyst for efficient hydrogen generation using the full solar spectrum. This noble metal-free material demonstrates superior performance across UV, visible, and near-infrared light.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Photocatalysis
- Renewable Energy
Background:
- Developing efficient photocatalysts for hydrogen generation is crucial for renewable energy.
- Utilizing the full solar spectrum (UV, visible, NIR) remains a significant challenge.
- Noble metal-free catalysts are highly desirable for cost-effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To fabricate a novel, low-cost, and stable Co2P/CdS Z-scheme photocatalyst.
- To achieve ultrabroad UV-vis-NIR light harvesting for photocatalytic hydrogen generation.
- To investigate the mechanism of enhanced full-spectrum photocatalysis.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of Co2P/CdS Z-scheme heterostructures.
- Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate (HER) measurements under solar, visible, and NIR light.
- Characterization using photoluminescence, photoelectrochemical measurements, FTIR, Raman, XPS, and DFT calculations.
Main Results:
- The optimized Co2P/CdS exhibited significantly higher H2 generation rates compared to individual components and Pt/CdS.
- Achieved H2 generation rates of 262.16, 66.98, and 3.93 mmol/g/h under solar, visible, and NIR light, respectively.
- Demonstrated enhanced charge carrier separation and interfacial charge transfer via Co-S bonds, crucial for full-spectrum HER.
Conclusions:
- The Co2P/CdS Z-scheme photocatalyst effectively utilizes the full solar spectrum for hydrogen generation without noble metals.
- The unique Co-S interfacial bonds play a vital role in facilitating charge transfer and enhancing photocatalytic activity.
- This work offers a promising pathway for developing efficient and cost-effective photocatalysts for solar fuel production.
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