Dual Z-scheme charge transfer in TiO2–Ag–Cu2O composite for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen generation

Photocatalytic hydrogen generation is one of the most promising solutions to convert solar power into green chemical energy. In this work, a multi-component TiO2–Ag–Cu2O composite was obtained through simple impregnation-calcination of Cu2O and subsequent photodeposition of Ag onto electrospun TiO2 nanotubes. The resulting TiO2–Ag–Cu2O photocatalyst exhibits excellent photocatalytic H2 evolution activity due to the synergetic effect of Ag and Cu2O on electrospun TiO2 nanotubes. A dual Z-scheme charge transfer pathway for photocatalytic reactions over TiO2–Ag–Cu2O composite was proposed and discussed. This work provides a prototype for designing Z-scheme photocatalyst with Ag as an electron mediator.