MoC@NC cocatalyst-modified ZnIn2S4 with strong 2D/2D hetero-interface interaction for efficient H2 evolution

Abstract

The development of low-cost and high-efficiency non-noble metal cocatalysts is one of the important factors in promoting the separation of photogenerated carriers. In this study, we report a stable and highly active MoC@NC/ZnIn₂S₄ heterostructure for photocatalytic H₂ evolution under visible light. The optimized MoC@NC/ZnIn₂S₄ composite displays an excellent photocatalytic H₂ evolution rate of 45.4 μmol h⁻¹, which was 8.3 times higher than that of ZnIn₂S₄. Its apparent quantum efficiency reached 51.5% at 420 nm. Moreover, the photocatalyst exhibits excellent stability and recycling capabilities. This remarkable activity can be ascribed to the modification of MoC@NC onto the ZnIn₂S₄ surface by forming an intimate contact interface, which can suppress the recombination of photogenerated carriers, consequently leading to superior photocatalytic H₂ evolution performance. This study indicated that MoC@NC can act as an outstanding cocatalyst for promoting ZnIn₂S₄ photocatalytic performance.