S-scheme photocatalysis induced by ZnIn₂S₄ nanoribbons-anchored hierarchical CeO₂ hollow spheres for boosted hydrogen evolution

Abstract

Developing S-scheme systems with impressive photocatalytic performance is of huge meaning in realizing the long-term conversion of solar energy into hydrogen. Herein, ZnIn2S4 nanoribbons were integrated with hierarchical CeO2 hollow spheres to construct heterostructure using an oil bath approach under mild conditions. The optimized CeO2/ZnIn2S4 presented a superior photocatalytic hydrogen production rate of 69 μmol/h, which is about 4.9 and 11.5 times greater than pristine ZnIn2S4 and CeO2, respectively. In addition, its apparent quantum yield achieved 7.6% at 420 nm. The improved photoactivity of the CeO2/ZnIn2S4 heterojunction can be referable to the cooperative effects of the aligned bandgap structures, strong visible-light-harvesting capacity, and interfacial interactions via the internal electric field. This study provides insights into the protocols for rational design of S-scheme heterojunction catalysts for high-efficiency hydrogen evolution via sustainable photocatalytic water splitting.