Zinc cadmium sulphide (ZnxCd1-xS)-based photocatalysts for hydrogen production from seawater and wastewater

Hydrogen from water splitting presents a sustainable energy solution with high energy density. Semiconductor photocatalysts facilitate this process but face challenges such as sluggish kinetics and selectivity. Zinc Cadmium Sulfide (Zn x Cd 1-x S) has emerged as a promising photocatalyst due to its tunable band gap and strong visible light absorption. Despite its potential, Zn x Cd 1-x S photocatalysts often suffer from rapid charge carrier recombination, particle agglomeration, and limited absorption. This review systematically examines Zn x Cd 1-x S photocatalysts, focusing on synthesis, characterization, and modification strategies including cocatalyst loading, heterojunction formation, and morphology engineering. It critically evaluates the photocatalytic performance of these materials in seawater and wastewater, highlighting the challenges and proposing future research directions to enhance their practical application. • Efficient H₂ Production with Zn x Cd 1-x S to harness sunlight for clean energy. • Seawater can be converted into hydrogen for coastal energy solutions. • Dual benefit in wastewater treatment and photocatalytic hydrogen production. • Real-world feasibility for practical implementation in diverse environmental settings. • Advances in photocatalytic technology with Zn x Cd 1-x S materials is analyzed.