Construction of noble-metal-free FeWO4/Mn0.5Cd0.5S photocatalyst to optimize H2 evolution performance in water splitting

摘要

? 2022 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLCDesigning cost-effective photocatalysts with remarkable performance is a foresighted strategy to foster the evolution of H2 in water splitting. In this study, a p-n heterojunction FeWO4/Mn0.5Cd0.5S photocatalyst modified by low-cost and non-toxic FeWO4 was synthesized using hydrothermal and calcination methods. The hydrogen evolution activity of Mn0.5Cd0.5S was strengthened by varying the amount of FeWO4 loading. The hydrogen production rate of FeWO4/Mn0.5Cd0.5S photocatalyst loaded with 10 FeWO4 can reach 9.63 mmol g?1 h?1, which is equivalent to 2.16 times of pure Mn0.5Cd0.5S. The enhancement of the H2 evolution activity was primarily contributed to a p-n heterojunction formed at the interface of FeWO4 and Mn0.5Cd0.5S. It provides a fast pathway for the migration and separation of photogenerated charges and effectively inhibits the photo-corrosion of Mn0.5Cd0.5S.