Sn2+ dopant induced visible-light activity of SnO2 nanoparticles for H2 production

This work has reported the demonstration of tuning the valence band structure of SnO2 by doping Sn2+ cations into bulk of SnO2 nanoparticles. The combination of DFT calculations and electrochemical analysis results showed that the Sn2+ dopant induced the visible-light photocatalytic activity for H2 production from ethanol/water solution.

The visible-light photocatalytic activity of SnO2 nanoparticles for H2 production from ethanol/water solution could be created by Sn2+ dopant.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► The light absorption of SnO2 could be extended into visible light region by doping Sn2+ cations.
► Sn2+ doping results in the narrowing of band-gap energy level of SnO2.
► The Sn2+-doped SnO2 nanoparticles exhibit unexpected visible-light activity for H2 production.