P-Doped CdS integrated with multiphasic MoSe2 nanosheets accomplish prominent photocatalytic activity for hydrogen evolution

Abstract

Rational modulation of low-cost and versatile Cd-based photocatalysts coupled with transition metal diselenides is favorable for reinforcing the performance of hydrogen evolution. Herein, P-doped CdS nanorods (denoted as PCS) integrated with multiphasic MoSe₂ nanosheets (1T/2H MoSe₂, marked as MS-T) were fabricated by a convenient ultrasonic approach. The introduction of phosphorous into CdS is capable of promoting the effectiveness of charge separation and impeding the recombination of photo-engendered carriers, efficiently extending the lifetime. After incorporating 1T/2H MoSe₂ nanosheets with expanded interlamellar spacing and a more negative potential of the conduction band, the evolved hydrogen rate of 1T/2H MoSe₂/P-CdS (abbreviated as MS-T/PCS) composites is approximately 166.85 mmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹ with a high apparent quantum efficiency of 47.92% at 8 wt% under visible light illumination, which is 38.62 times that of the original PCS and superior to that of noble metal-modified traditional catalysts. To the best of our understanding, this notable activity surpasses that of most Cd-based catalysts currently reported. This work shows that the potential strategy of integrating phosphorus and loading multiphasic MoSe₂ nanosheets provides indisputable enhancements for hydrogen evolution and an imaginative route for the rational construction of prospective photocatalysts.