Synthesis of non-noble metal solid solution (Cd0.76Co0.17Mo0.07S) via MOF precursors for enhanced hydrogen production

Abstract

In photocatalysis, catalysts are crucial for effective charge transfer and separation. Using Mo-MOF and CdCo-MOF as precursors, we have designed an effective Cd_0.76Cd_0.17Mo_0.07S (Ethy-CCMS) photocatalyst. We compared the performance of samples prepared in different environments and found that the rod-shaped Ethy-CCMS prepared in an alkaline environment provided by ethylenediamine exhibited the highest photocatalytic hydrogen production activity with an efficiency of 30.14 mmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹, which was 32.2 times higher than that of the CdS prepared under aqueous solution conditions. The solid solution formed can accelerate the separation of photogenerated electrons and avoid the formation of high oxidation power h⁺ compared to CdS alone. In addition, adding Mo and Co enables these three metals to form bonds with S. The shared S-bond improves the stability of the material and significantly mitigates the photocorrosion phenomenon. This study investigates the role of sulfides derived from Mo-MOF and CdCo-MOF as sustainable and promising co-catalyst candidates to enhance the photocatalytic performance of CdS-based composites.