NiSe2 nanoparticles modified ZnIn2S4 microspheres for boosting photocatalytic hydrogen evolution under visible light irradiation

A well-designed composite based on semiconductor materials can effectively reduce the recombination of photo-generated carriers in photocatalysts by establishing efficient charge transfer channels, which enhances the activity of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution for water splitting. Herein, a ZnIn 2 S 4 /NiSe 2 composite with NiSe 2 nanoparticles tightly anchored on the nanosheets-assembled microspheres ZnIn 2 S 4 was elaborated and successfully synthesized by a hot-injection method followed by a successive solvothermal method. The synergistic effects and close contact interface between ZnIn 2 S 4 and NiSe 2 facilitated charge migration. Under visible light irradiation, the optimal ratio of ZnIn 2 S 4 /NiSe 2 composite achieved an outstanding hydrogen evolution rate of 3060 µmol g −1  h −1 (nearly 12.6 times of unmodified ZnIn 2 S 4 ) and exhibited superior stability (no apparent decrease within 20 h) in the presence of a sacrificial agent (triethanolamine). Additionally, various characterizations revealed that the recombination of photo-generated carriers was effectively suppressed, visible-light absorption was significantly enhanced, and interface charge transfer was accelerated, thus endowing the ZnIn 2 S 4 /NiSe 2 composite with superior photocatalytic activity . This research provides illuminating insights into using the non-noble metal-based catalyst NiSe 2 as an effective co-catalyst, significantly improving photocatalytic performance and holding great potential in alleviating energy shortages and environmental pollution problems.