Synthesis of MnxCd1-xS nanorods and modification with CuS for extraordinarily superior photocatalytic H2 production

Nanorods, with high length-to-diameter ratio, enhanced optical absorption capacity and scattering properties, have aroused researchers' interests. Herein, novel and crystalline MnxCd1-xS (0 x 1) nanorods were prepared via a facile solvothermal method. By employing an in situ ion exchange process, CuS/Mn0.3Cd0.7S composites were constructed. The prepared catalysts displayed particularly high H-2 evolution performance, with the maximum reaching 106.84 mmol g(-1) h(-1), and 18.32% ( = 420 nm) apparent quantum efficiency (AQE). The characterization results confirmed that the Mn0.3Cd0.7S nanorods and the heterojunction at the contact interface of CuS and Mn0.3Cd0.7S were the origin of such fine H-2 production. Furthermore, deactivation of the studied catalysts were explored profoundly.