Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 9, 2026

Synthesis and Performance Evaluations of ZnCoS/ZnCdS with Twin Crystal Structure for Multifunctional Redox Photocatalysis in Energy Applications
Published on: July 25, 2025
Synergizing Schottky/S-Scheme Dual-Junction With Cu/Pb Dual-Site in a 0D/3D Cu@CsPbBr3/g-C3N4 Heterojunction for
Zexiang Wang1, Feng Xiang2, Haixia Wang1
1School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Ji'nan, P. R. China.
Abstract:
The CO2 photoreduction to multi-carbon products, particularly C2H4, remains challenging due to inefficient charge separation, high C-C coupling barriers, and limited mass transport. Herein, we designed a mixed-dimensional heterostructure integrating S-scheme and Schottky junctions, with Cu-decorated CsPbBr3 nanocrystals anchored on three-dimensionally ordered macroporous g-C3N4 (Cu@CPB/3DOM-CN). In situ x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy demonstrate dual internal electric fields driving rectified spatial carrier separation with strong redox capability. Strong metal-support interaction induces charge redistribution, generating polarized Cu/Pb dual sites that lower the energy barrier for *CO hydrogenation to *CHO. In situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy combined with density functional theory calculations provides direct evidence that dual sites promote asymmetric *CO-*CHO coupling. The 3DOM framework functions as a nanoreactor, enhancing the local enrichment of CO2 and key intermediates to promote coupling kinetics. The optimized catalyst exhibits distinct selectivity across varying CO2 concentrations, achieving 52.4% C2H4 selectivity (26.37 µmol g-1 h-1) in pure CO2, which increases to 77.6% and 65.1% under 5% and 0.04% CO2 (balanced with Ar), respectively, highlighting its remarkable adaptability to diverse application scenarios. This work establishes a triple synergy of directional charge transport, active-site polarization, and reactant enrichment for efficient and selective CO2-to-C2H4 conversion.
Related Concept Videos
Schottky Barrier Diode
Thermal and Photochemical Electrocyclic Reactions: Overview
P-N junction
Photochemical Electrocyclic Reactions: Stereochemistry
Selection Rules: Photochemical Activation
Cycloaddition Reactions: MO Requirements for Photochemical Activation
Metal-Semiconductor Junctions
Schottky Barriers
Schottky barriers arise when a metal with a work function (Φm) contacts a semiconductor with a different work function (Φs). Initially, electrons transfer until the Fermi levels of the metal and semiconductor align at equilibrium. For instance, if Φm > Φs, the semiconductor Fermi level is higher than the metal's before contact. The semiconductor's...
