Recent developments in the design of CdxZn1-xS-Based photocatalysts for sustainable production of hydrogen

Abstract

Photocatalytic production of clean fuel hydrogen (H2) from water using semiconductor nanomaterials as photocatalysts aided by natural sunlight represents a promising means to fulfill the growing energy demand and for mitigating increasing concentration of atmospheric CO2 due to the burning of fossil fuels. Among the widely studied semiconductor nanomaterials, the CdxZn1 xS ternary system has gained significant interest due to its tunable band edge, optical and electronic properties by merely varying the Cd2þ/Zn2þ content. Consequently, CdxZn1 xS-based nanostructures have been extensively studied as promising visible-light-active photocatalysts for H2 production from water and other photocatalytic transformations. Herein, a comprehensive account of the research progress in the development of CdxZn1 xS-based photocatalysts for the production of solar fuel, H2 from water is provided. Further, various strategies used in enhancing the photocatalytic activity of CdxZn1 xS photocatalysts, like control of the morphology (0D, 1D, 2D, and 3D), bandgap engineering, and fabrication of various heterostructures have been discussed in detail. Furthermore, opportunities and future perspectives of CdxZn1 xS-based photocatalysts for practical applications have also been discussed. Overall, the importance of CdxZn1 xSbased photocatalysts is showcased for efficient visible-light-driven hydrogen production and can be beneficial for the design of sustainable photocatalytic systems.