ZnIn2S4-based heterostructure photocatalysts for solar energy conversion: a comprehensive review

Abstract

Solar energy driven photocatalysis is a promising technology to solve the urgent energy and environmental problems, while its practical applications are heavily limited by the lack of ideal photocatalytic materials. ZnIn₂S₄ has recently attracted extensive attention as a visible-light-responsive photocatalyst due to its prominent advantages of simple synthesis, excellent stability, a wide light absorption range, and an appropriate band structure. However, the photocatalytic performance of pristine ZnIn₂S₄ can hardly meet the requirement of practical applications. In this context, various ZnIn₂S₄-based heterostructures have been developed with improved photocatalytic performances. This comprehensive review focuses on the recent progress regarding ZnIn₂S₄-based heterostructures for energy conversion applications. First, the fundamental physicochemical properties of ZnIn₂S₄ were introduced, including the crystal structure, optical properties, synthesis methods and modification strategies. Then, the ZnIn₂S₄-based heterostructure photocatalysts were classified based on their different charge transfer mechanisms, and the representative heterostructure systems were categorically introduced. The widespread applications of ZnIn₂S₄-based heterostructures for solar fuel synthesis mainly include H₂ production, CO₂ reduction, N₂ fixation, etc. Finally, the current challenges and perspectives of ZnIn₂S₄-based heterostructure photocatalysts were also discussed. This review aims to highlight the recent advancements and challenges of ZnIn₂S₄-based heterostructures, and further provides an instructive direction and foresight on the design of high-performance ZnIn₂S₄-based photocatalysts for solar energy conversion and storage.