Highly stable CdS-modified short TiO2 nanotube array electrode for efficient visible-light hydrogen generation

A highly stable photoelectrocatalytic electrode made of CdS-modified short, robust, and highly-ordered TiO2 nanotube array for efficient visible-light hydrogen generation was prepared via sonoelectrochemical anodization and sonoelectrochemical deposition method. The short nanotube electrode possesses excellent charge separation and transfer properties, while the sonoelectrochemical deposition method improves the combination between CdS and TiO2 nanotubes, as well as the dispersion of CdS nanoparticles. Different characterization techniques were used to study the nanocomposite electrode. UV–vis absorption and photoelectrochemical measurements proved that the CdS coating extends the visible spectrum absorption and the solar spectrum-induced photocurrent response. Comparing the photoactivity of the CdS/TiO2 electrode obtained using sonoelectrochemical deposition method with others that synthesized using plain electrochemical deposition, the current density of the former electrode is ∼1.2 times higher that of the latter when biased at 0.5 V. A ∼7-fold enhancement in photocurrent response is obtained using the sonoelectrochemically fabricated CdS/TiO2 electrode in comparison with the pure TiO2 nanotube electrode. Under AM1.5 illumination the composite photoelectrode generate hydrogen at a rate of 30.3 μmol h−1 cm−2, nearly 13 times higher than that of pure titania nanotube electrode. Recycle experiments demonstrated the excellent stability and reliability of CdS/TiO2 electrode prepared by sonoelectrochemical deposition. This composite electrode, with its strong mechanical stability and excellent combination of CdS and TiO2 nanotubes, offers promising applications in visible-light-driven renewable energy generation.