Efficient visible-light-driven hydrogen evolution with MoS2/TiO2 heterojunction photoanodes on porous stainless steel mesh

In this study, a MoS 2 /TiO 2 composite photoanode was fabricated on an SSM substrate via sputtering and hydrothermal synthesis, forming an efficient heterojunction structure to enhance photoelectrochemical (PEC) performances. Structural and optical characterizations confirmed the successful integration of MoS 2 and TiO 2 , leading to enhanced visible light absorption, improved charge transport, and increased catalytic activity. Photoelectrochemical measurements revealed a photocurrent density of 102.21 μA/cm 2 at 0.91 V RHE , a 15.4 % improvement over TiO 2 /SSM, along with a 53.7 % increase in applied-bias photon-to-current efficiency (ABPE). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicates a significantly reduction in charge transfer resistance, and hydrogen generation tests showed a 2.7-fold increase compared to TiO 2 /SSM. These results highlight the synergistic effects of MoS 2 and TiO 2 combined with the structural advantages of SSM, providing a promising strategy for efficient solar-driven hydrogen production. • Visible-light-active MoS 2 /TiO 2 heterojunction photoanode was fabricated on porous SSM. • Optimized MoS 2 morphology via oleylamine control improved charge separation and PEC activity. • Porous and conductive SSM enhanced electrolyte access, light harvesting, and catalytic reaction. • MoS 2 /TiO 2 /SSM achieved 245.6 μA cm −2 at 1.23 V RHE and 1.38 % ABPE, 2.7 × higher than TiO 2 /SSM.