Nanoflower Balls Loaded with Nonprecious Metals Efficient Resist Photocorrosion for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution

The production of hydrogen via solar driven photocatalytic water splitting represents a promising pathway to green energy. In this study, the promising bimetallic sulfide Zn₂In₂S₅ is chosen to break through its inherent performance limitations. Loading the cocatalyst NiMoS₄ encapsulated by nanoflower spheres of Zn₂In₂S₅ has the property of significantly inhibiting photocorrosion. The hydrogen evolution rate of the NiMoS₄/ Zn₂In₂S₅ composite under simulated sunlight is 5.64 mmol g^-1 h^-1, which is three times higher than that of the main catalyst Zn₂In₂S₅. It is derived from physical phase analytical characterization, photoelectrochemical characterization and density functional theory computational simulation, confirming that the introduction of the NiMoS₄ cocatalyst is a key factor in enhancing the efficiency of the hydrogen evolution reaction by promoting the electron enrichment effect and increasing the catalytically active sites. It is aimed to synergistically enhance the photogenerated carrier separation efficiency and facilitate the conversion of solar energy into chemical energy, providing inspiration for developing efficient and stable photocatalyst systems.