FeCo-LDH/Cd0.5Zn0.5S nanocomposite for efficient photocatalytic H2 evolution coupled with plastic waste upcycling

The FeCo-LDH/Cd 1-x Zn x S nanocomposite was synthesized via an impregnation method, employing FeCo-LDH as a cocatalyst for simultaneous upcycling of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics and photocatalytic hydrogen production. The 5 %LDH/Cd 0.5 Zn 0.5 S nanocomposite demonstrated an optimal hydrogen evolution rate of 3.67 mmol·g −1 ·h −1 in alkaline PET solution, which is 2.3 times higher than pristine Cd 0.5 Zn 0.5 S. Notably, the photocatalyst retained stable performance over six recycling tests without significant activity loss. Concurrently, PET oxidation by photogenerated holes yielded acetate as the primary product, achieving an 87 % yield. The real-world applicability of this approach was further validated through the successful photoreforming of a PET bottle. UV–vis DRS, TRPL, and PEC analyses revealed that the incorporation of appropriate amount of FeCo-LDH significantly enhanced charge carrier separation, thereby boosting the photocatalytic activity. Furthermore, UPS and DFT calculations elucidated the mechanistic pathway for PET conversion and hydrogen production over FeCo-LDH/Cd 0.5 Zn 0.5 S. This study presents a promising strategy for co-producing hydrogen and value-added chemicals from PET waste, highlighting its potential for practical recycling applications.