Pomegranate-like ZnxCd1-xS@MoS2 nano-heterostructure as a stable and efficient photocatalyst for H2 evolution

A novel pomegranate-like Zn x Cd 1-x S@MoS 2 core@shell nano-heterostructure was synthesized by using a facile one-pot solvothermal approach. In this architecture, the MoS 2 nanosheet and well-dispersed Zn x Cd 1-x S nanospheres serve as peel and seeds, respectively. While maintaining the advantages of nanoscale materials, such as high ratio of surface to volume and a relatively short charge transportation path, this unique structure also provides some additional positive features for H 2 generation application: (1) the intimate contact of MoS 2 and Zn x Cd 1-x S contributes to the well-defined heterostructure formation and thus enhances H 2 generation efficiency; (2) the MoS 2 nanosheets with amorphous-like structures providing numerous active sites for H 2 generation; (3) the multiple pore nano structure promotes mass transfer and allows the active site through exposure; (4) the coated MoS 2 with superior chemical stability protects Zn x Cd 1-x S from photocorrosion and disaggregation. With those advantages, the Zn x Cd 1-x S@MoS 2 heterostructure exhibits a high photocatalytic H 2 evolution rate of 28.22 mmol g −1  h −1 far exceeding that of pristine Zn x Cd 1-x S by a factor of more than 56 and maintains long term stability with no obvious active deterioration in 24 h performance evaluation. Moreover, the one-pot synthesis of this heterostructure significantly saves time and energy, rendering it cost-efficiency. The demonstrated strategy here could have great significance in the design and fabrication of the low-cost and high-efficient heterogeneous photocatalysts .