Dual Z-scheme charge transfer in TiO2–Ag–Cu2O composite for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen generation

Photocatalytic hydrogen generation is one of the most promising solutions to convert solar power into green chemical energy. In this work, a multi-component TiO 2 –Ag–Cu 2 O composite was obtained through simple impregnation-calcination of Cu 2 O and subsequent photodeposition of Ag onto electrospun TiO 2 nanotubes. The resulting TiO 2 –Ag–Cu 2 O photocatalyst exhibits excellent photocatalytic H 2 evolution activity due to the synergetic effect of Ag and Cu 2 O on electrospun TiO 2 nanotubes. A dual Z-scheme charge transfer pathway for photocatalytic reactions over TiO 2 –Ag–Cu 2 O composite was proposed and discussed. This work provides a prototype for designing Z-scheme photocatalyst with Ag as an electron mediator.