Shining light on sustainable and clean hydrogen production: Recent developments with In2S3 photocatalysts

Due to its critical role in the shift to sustainable energy systems, hydrogen, 'hailed as the future energy carrier,' has attracted more attention. This review article provides a complete overview of recent advances in photocatalytic hydrogen production, particularly emphasizing In2S3 and In2S3-based photocatalysts. The article begins with a historical review and explains the critical motivations behind efficient hydrogen generation in the rising demand for clean energy before delving into the fundamental principles of semiconductor photocatalysis. The study emphasizes In2S3's importance in harvesting solar energy for hydrogen synthesis and its potential as a photocatalyst due to its outstanding features and compatibility with the solar spectrum. The review paper also sheds light on the various synthesis methods for fabricating of In2S3 and its composites. The article then focuses on photocatalytic hydrogen production using In2S3 and In2S3-based photocatalysts, reviewing recent improvements and innovations that have contributed to increased catalytic activity. The paper also summarizes the intrinsic characterization techniques used to determine the structural and optical properties of In2S3 photocatalysts, which include X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-DRS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). These approaches provide significant insights into understanding and enhancing the photocatalytic process. Furthermore, a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis assesses the internal and external variables impacting In2S3 and In2S3-based photocatalytic hydrogen production. This research provides more detailed information about this technology's current situation and future hurdles. Finally, the study offers a peek into the future of photocatalytic hydrogen production with In2S3 and its composites, offering light on developing trends and areas for further research. This study is helpful for academics, policymakers, and stakeholders interested in sustainable hydrogen generation systems since it thoroughly examines current developments and prospects.