PHOTO-ELECTROCATALYTIC CAPABILITIES OF A GREEN-SYNTHESIZED MOS₂–WO₃ COMPOSITE

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) is an n-type semiconductor with a versatile layered structure that supports a wide range of multifunctional applications, e.g., green hydrogen production and the degradation of organic pollutants in wastewater [1,2]. However, its standalone use is often limited by rapid charge recombination and photocorrosion, which can hinder its photo(electro)chemical performance [1,2]. To overcome these challenges, the formation of a heterostructure with tungsten oxide (WO₃) is a well-established strategy to enhance the functional efficiency of MoS2. In addition, the aim of this work was to synthesize MoS2-WO3 ­composite and to investigate its potential as a photo(electro)catalyst. A sustainable synthesis approach was employed, using ascorbic acid as a green reducing agent for MoS₂ production. The samples were characterized by XRD, SEM and XPS, while electrochemical performance was evaluated using cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The findings of this research revealed that under the applied hydrothermal conditions, defect-rich 2H MoS₂ was formed. The MoS₂–WO₃ composites exhibited enhanced photo(electro)chemical responses, attributable to the synergistic interaction within the heterostructure. In addition, the obtained results demonstrated the synergistic effect of the MoS₂-WO₃ heterostructure, highlighting its promising potential for efficient and sustainable photo(electro)catalytic applications.