Dual-defect engineered TiO₂@ZnIn₂S₄ Z-scheme heterojunction for outstanding photocatalytic H₂ evolution
Date
2026
Authors
Nan, M.-Y.
Rao, H.
Zhang, J.
She, P.
Qin, J.-S.
Ran, J.
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Advisors
Journal Title
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Journal article
Citation
Journal of Energy Chemistry, 2026; 115:178-188
Statement of Responsibility
Mai-Yan Nan, Heng Rao, Jinpeng Zhang, Ping She, Jun-Sheng Qin, Jingrun Ran
Conference Name
Abstract
Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution (PHE) is one of the most promising methods for clean energy production. However, current photocatalysts are still challenged by limited light absorption and rapid recombination of photogenerated carriers. Constructing defects can effectively broaden light absorption and promote charge separation and transfer. The interface between heterogeneous catalysts is prone to generating multi-component active centers to facilitate the activation of reactants for enhanced catalytic activity. In this report, the combination of defective TiO₂ and ZnIn₂S₄ of sulfur-rich vacancies (TiO₂@ZIS) was developed, which achieved an optimized PHE rate of 9.63 mmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹. After loading 1.0 wt% Pt cocatalyst, TiO₂@ZIS exhibits the apparently-raised PHE rate of 83.41 mmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹ in the presence of triethanolamine (TEOA) as the sacrificial agent. Theoretical calculation and experimental results reveal that the remarkable hydrogen (H₂) evolution performance is contributed by the unique Z-scheme charge transfer pathway, which reduces energy loss during charge transfer and facilitates the kinetics of surface H₂ evolution. This report provides valuable insights into designing and engineering defective materials for solar-driven energy conversion.
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© 2025 Published by Elsevier B.V. and Science Press on behalf of Science Press and Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences.