Enhanced sunlight photocatalytic performance of ZnO/ZnS binary heterostructure sheets

The 2D binary heterostructured ZnO/ZnS sheets were prepared via a hydro-thermal synthesis method. The X-ray diffraction results illustrated that ZnS was successfully formed on ZnO sheets. The images captured by field emission scanning electron microscopy showed the granular structure with fine particles on the surface, which increases the contact area between dye solution and catalysts. The EDS spectrum suggested that the surface of the heterojunction was almost entirely coated with ZnS. The UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra clarified that the ultraviolet and visible absorption of heterostructure were both enhanced. These results all contribute to the efficient methyl orange degradation with the degradation rate of 83% in 4 h under direct sunlight. (C) 2019 Published by Elsevier B.V.