Enhancing photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance of Zn3In2S6 by employing non-precious metal NiSe as cocatalyst

The exploration and development of non-precious metal cocatalysts that can replace precious metal cocatalysts are crucial for enhancing the performance of monomer photocatalysts and promoting the practical application of photocatalytic technology. In this study, a series of x% NiSe/ZIS 6 composite photocatalysts based on pure Zn 3 In 2 S 6 were prepared by a simple ultrasonic-assisted deposition method using non-precious metal NiSe as the cocatalyst. The crystal phase structure, microscopic morphology, surface chemical valence state, and successful preparation of the prepared samples were comprehensively studied by characterization methods. Compared with the monomer Zn 3 In 2 S 6 , all the x% NiSe/ZIS 6 composites exhibited significantly improved photocatalytic hydrogen production performance. The amount of NiSe introduced significantly influences the photocatalytic hydrogen production performance. With a hydrogen production rate of 12.41 mmol g −1 h −1 , the photocatalyst exhibits 7.48 times higher activity than the pure ZIS 6 . The reason for the improved photocatalytic hydrogen production can be attributed to the fact that the introduction of NiSe as a cocatalyst significantly enhanced the light absorption performance of the composite photocatalyst. In addition to promoting charge separation, it is also considered an active center for hydrogen evolution reactions, which may provide more active sites for the reaction. This research provides valuable reference for the design and construction of high-performance noble metal-free cocatalysts/semiconductor composite photocatalysts using metal selenides as cocatalysts. • Non-precious metal NiSe was used as cocatalyst. • The NiSe/ZIS 6 composite photocatalyst was prepared by a simple ultrasonic-assisted deposition method. • The hydrogen production rate of 15% NiSe/ZIS 6 was 12.41 mmol g −1 h −1 . • The introduction of NiSe significantly promoted the separation and migration of photogenerated carriers.