Microwave-Assisted Ion-Exchange Synthesis and Enhanced Visible-Light Photoactivity of Graphene-CdS/CuS Nanoplates

A novel reduced graphene oxide graphene-CdS/CuS nanoplate (G-CdS/CuS NP) was fabricated using a microwave method of loading CdS nanoplates onto graphene sheets (G-CdS NP) and subsequent cation exchange between G-CdS NP and Cu(NO3)2. The prepared G-CdS/CuS NP exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity which was attributed to the synergy between graphene and CdS/CuS NP. The heterostructure in the CdS/CuS NP lead to an efficient charge transport across the interface. Graphene facilitated the transformation of electrons and reduced the recombination of electron–hole pairs. These results provide a fabrication method for highly active photocatalysts and will lead to future rational design of photocatalytic materials.