Photocatalytic hydrogen production under visible-light irradiation on (CuAg)0.15In0.3Zn1.4S2 synthesized by precipitation and calcination

This study investigates the photocatalytic hydrogen production over nanosized (CuAg)0.15In0.3Zn1.4S2 photocatalysts prepared via precipitation and calcination. The photocatalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, N2 adsorption-desorption, and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. The results show that calcination temperature and time significantly influence the crystallinity, specific surface area, and visible-light absorption capacity of the photocatalysts. The photocatalyst activity was studied under visible-light irradiation with KI as the electron donor. The results indicate that the (CuAg)0.15In0.3Zn1.4S2 photocatalyst prepared at a calcination temperature of 600 °C for 5 h yields the highest photocatalytic activity (H2 production rate of 1750 μmol g−1 h−1 and quantum yield of 12.8% at 420 ± 5 nm), approximately 6 times larger than that of catalysts prepared without thermal treatment.

Graphical AbstractThe visible light absorbance, crystallinity, and band structure of (CuAg)0.15In0.3Zn1.4S2 photocatalysts showed apparent dependence on calcination temperature and time. Consequently, photocatalytic activity and H2 production rate were significantly influenced by calcination processes.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide