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Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Synthesis and Performance Evaluations of ZnCoS/ZnCdS with Twin Crystal Structure for Multifunctional Redox Photocatalysis in Energy Applications
Published on: July 25, 2025
Highly Selective Coupled CO2-to-CO Reduction and Anisyl Alcohol Oxidation Over In Situ-Anchored CdSe Quantum Dots on
Yujun Wang1, Wenjing Cao1, Penghui Xu2
1State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, P. R. China.
Abstract:
Photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) is a promising route for solar-to-chemical conversion, yet its performance is still limited by weak CO2 activation, rapid charge recombination, and the use of sacrificial reagents. Coupling CO2RR with value-added organic oxidation can improve overall redox efficiency, but it requires efficient interfacial charge transport and balanced dual-half-reaction kinetics. Herein, we report an in situ-derived CdSe quantum dots/layered double hydroxide (CdSe/LDH) composite catalyst for visible light driven CO2 to CO reduction coupled with anisyl alcohol oxidation to pinacol, without external photosensitizers or sacrificial donors. In situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy reveals reactant-dependent electronic shifts under illumination, indicating dynamic interfacial charge redistribution during catalysis. Compared with the individual components, the coupled catalyst delivers approximately threefold higher CO evolution, high pinacol selectivity (∼98%), and markedly improved cycling stability under visible-light irradiation (λ ≥ 400 nm). This work demonstrates an in situ interface-engineering strategy to stabilize quantum-dot photocatalysts while promoting synergistic activity, selectivity, and durability in dual-end photocatalytic redox coupling.
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