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Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Synthesis and Performance Evaluations of ZnCoS/ZnCdS with Twin Crystal Structure for Multifunctional Redox Photocatalysis in Energy Applications
Published on: July 25, 2025
Deciphering the S-scheme carrier transfer dynamics of a CdS-ZnCdS heterostructure for enhanced hydrogen evolution: an
Atal Swathi Patra1,2, Himanshu Bhatt1,2, Rakesh Kumar Behera1,2
1School of Chemical Sciences, National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), An OCC of Homi Bhabha National Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 752050, India. hnghosh@niser.ac.in.
Abstract:
S-Scheme heterostructures have proved their proficiency as state-of-the-art photocatalysts due to their unique ability to segregate photogenerated carriers at high redox potentials. Here, we designed an S-scheme heterostructure by combining two broadly absorbing photocatalysts, CdS and ZnCdS (ZCS), using the in situ solvothermal method. This unique integration resulted in improved hydrogen evolution rates for the CdS/ZCS heterostructure compared to those of pristine systems. The photoluminescence study highlighted a suppressed charge recombination in the heterostructure owing to its staggered type band alignment. Photoelectron spectroscopy revealed the creation of a directional electric field at the heterointerface due to the underlying charge migration. Femtosecond transient absorption (TA) spectroscopy featured an interfacial electron transfer from CdS to ZCS upon illumination. The comprehensive spectroscopic investigation, combining ultrafast and photoelectron spectroscopy, revealed an S-scheme charge separation mechanism in the CdS/ZCS heterostructure, leading to improved H2 yields. This work emphasises the importance of the underlying photophysical pathways in artificial photocatalysis, thereby opening a new avenue for designing cutting-edge S-scheme-based photocatalysts.
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