Formation of unique hollow ZnSnO3@ZnIn2S4 core-shell heterojunction to boost visible-light-driven photocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen production

Herein, it is reported that a batch of hollow core-shell heterostructure photocatalysts were carefully fabricated using a reliable and convenient low-temperature solvothermal method, and ultra-thin ZnIn2S4 nanosheets are grown in situ on the hollow ZnSnO3 cubes to achieve efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. This unique layered hollow structure utilizes multiple light scattering/reflection within the cavity to enhance light absorption, the thin shell reduces the path of charge transfer, and the irregular nanosheets-wrapped outer layer not only enhances the adsorption power, but also provides an abundant active sites to promote the efficiency of photocatalytic water splitting to produce hydrogen. Therefore, due to the matching energy band and unique structure, the ZnSnO3@ZnIn2S4 hollow core-shell heterostructure photocatalyst exhibits superior H-2 production efficiency (16340.18 mu mol h(-1) g(-1)) and outstanding stability. This work emphasizes the importance of carefully designing a suitable material structure in addition to adjusting the chemical composition. (C) 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.