In situ surface engineering of ultrafine Ni2P nanoparticles on cadmium sulfide for robust hydrogen evolution. Issue 21 (20th June 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, Junfang; Wang, Peifang; Hou, Jun; Qian, Jin; Wang, Chao; Ao, Yanhui
• Is Part Of: Catalysis science & technology. Volume 8:Issue 21(2018)
• Page Start: 5406
• Page End: 5415
• Publication Date: 2018-06-20
• Subjects: Catalysis -- Periodicals; 541.395
• DOI: 10.1039/c8cy00519b
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2044-4753

Abstract

Abstract : Here we report the in situ growth of well-dispersed ultrafine Ni2 P nanoparticles on CdS nanorods by a simple solvothermal method and a further surface phosphatization treatment for the first time. Abstract : Exploring visible light-driven, low-cost semiconductor materials for water-splitting holds great promise to overcome the drawbacks of fossil fuel consumption and worsening worldwide pollution. Here we report the in situ growth of well-dispersed ultrafine Ni2 P nanoparticles on CdS nanorods by a simple solvothermal method and a further surface phosphatization treatment for the first time. The as-synthesized Ni2 P–CdS hybrid with optimal composition showed an average hydrogen evolution rate of 34.9 mmol h −1 g −1, which was about 23 times higher than that of pure CdS. The dramatically enhanced photocatalytic activity can be ascribed to the intimate interface between the well-dispersed ultrafine Ni2 P cocatalysts and the CdS nanorods, which was favorable for the photogenerated electrons' transfer and separation which promoted the photocatalytic performance. Specifically, the introduction of well-dispersed ultrafine Ni2 P cocatalysts was favorable for the trapping of photoexcited electrons and the subsequent reduction of protons to produce H2 because of the shortened transfer path. Furthermore, the as-prepared hybrids exhibited good stability for hydrogen evolution under visible light irradiation.