Facile synthesis of Cd0.2Zn0.8S-ethylenediamine hybrid solid solution and its improved photocatalytic performance

The hybrid solid solutions of Cd0.2Zn0.8S-ethylenediamine (En) have been successfully synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method, characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction, UV-Vis diffusion reflectance spectroscopy, room-temperature photoluminescence spectra (PL), and tested their photocatalytic performance for H2 evolution under visible light irradiation. It is found that the ratios of ethylenediamine and water in a mixed solvent system has a significant influence on the crystal structure, morphology, wettability, optical and electronic properties, and photocatalytic hydrogen production rate of Cd0.2Zn0.8S-En hybrid solid solution. The enhancement in photocatalytic activity was observed with En containing Cd0.2Zn0.8S solid solution, and the rate of the photocatalytic H2 production increases with an increase of En content in the photocatalyst. The sample prepared in pure En solvent exhibits a maximum H2 production rate of about 5500 μmol h−1 g−1. The superior photocatalytic performance of En containing Cd0.2Zn0.8S hybrid solid solution can be ascribed to the high crystallinity, appropriate morphology, good wettability and the creation of new surface states.