When the past meets the present: New insights into the synthesis and photoelectrochemical stability of mosaic gold

Tin sulfides are widely used in various applications, such as lithium-ion batteries, photodetectors , photocatalysts , and photovoltaic cells . SnS 2 (mosaic gold) is mainly known for its stability and effectiveness as a reductive photocatalyst. However, it is vulnerable to corrosion from light exposure and environmental factors, but the mechanism behind these reactions are not well understood. In this study, SnS 2 synthesized by three methods, salt melting, hydrothermal synthesis , and solid-state reaction, were investigated, and their morphological and phase composition were studied. The stability of the materials under different light sources and environmental conditions was analyzed by electrochemical measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), spectroscopy and Raman imaging . The results demonstrate that the photostability of SnS 2 pigments is influenced by their composition and morphology, with non-stoichiometric and flower-like structures exhibiting enhanced resistance. This research contributes to understanding the pigment's stability. Raman spectroscopy spot analysis revealed the presence of a multiphase composition, suggesting local changes in structure. However, the overall photostability is guaranteed by the geometry and purity of the mosaic gold particles. • Mosaic gold is a stable but photocorrosion-vulnerable photocatalyst. • Various synthesis methods yield different morphologies and phase compositions of SnS 2 . • Flower-like and stoichiometric SnS 2 structures exhibit enhanced resistance. • Photostability of SnS 2 pigments is influenced by composition, morphology, and light. •Historical and modern uses of SnS 2 highlight its reflective qualities and stability.