ZnO/CuInS2 core/shell heterojunction nanoarray for photoelectrochemical water splitting

ZnO/CuInS2 core/shell nanorods array thin film was synthesized on conducting glass substrates for photoelectrochemical water splitting via a simple hydrothermal and cation exchange reaction, using ZnO nanorods array as reactive template. Uniform CuInS2 films were obtained on the surface of ZnO nanorods, based on the ion-by-ion growth mechanism. The optical property of core/shell nanoarray was characterized, and enhanced absorption spectrum was observed. Hydrogen generation efficiency of 3.2% at 0.29 V versus saturated calomel electrode was achieved with synthesized ZnO/CuInS2 core/shell nanoarray electrode due to the improved absorption and appropriate energy gap structure. The synthesized core/shell nanoarray has potential application in photoelectrochemical water splitting.

► Uniform CuInS2 layer was synthesized on surface of ZnO naonrods via facile route. ► The expected products can be used for photoelectrochemical water splitting. ► High photocurrent was obtained due to the absorption spectra and band structure.