Nano-layered Zn2In2S5 for the selective photocatalytic oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde under visible light

A nano-layered Zn 2 In 2 S 5 photocatalyst, synthesized via a low-temperature oil bath and ultrasonic treatment, has been successfully applied to the selective photocatalytic oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde under visible light. The ultrasonically treated Zn 2 In 2 S 5 demonstrated excellent photocatalytic performance, achieving approximately 55.6% conversion of benzyl alcohol and selectivity towards benzaldehyde in an oxygen-free environment. Electron paramagnetic resonance and radical trapping experiments revealed that the photocatalytic conversion of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde is driven by photogenerated holes and carbon-centered radical intermediates. DFT calculations revealed that the S atoms of the ZnS 4 tetrahedra on the surface are the major active sites for activating benzyl alcohol. The study provides a simple approach to construct an efficient nano-layered photocatalyst, showcasing the potential of Zn 2 In 2 S 5 in photocatalytic organic synthesis reactions.