A 1D/2D helical CdS/ZnIn2 S4 nano-heterostructure

Angew Chem Int Ed Engl. 2014 Feb 24;53(9):2339-43. doi: 10.1002/anie.201310513. Epub 2014 Jan 29.

Abstract

Multidimensional nano-heterostructures (NHSs) that have unique dimensionality-dependent integrative and synergic effects are intriguing but still underdeveloped. Here, we report the first helical 1D/2D epitaxial NHS between CdS and ZnIn2S4. Experimental and theoretical studies reveal that the mismatches in lattice and dangling bonds between 1D and 2D units govern the growth procedure. The resulting well-defined interface induces the delocalized interface states, thus facilitate the charge transfer and enhance the performance in the photoelectrochemical cells. We foresee that the mechanistic insights gained and the electronic structures revealed would inspire the design of more complex 1D/2D NHSs with outstanding functionalities.

Keywords: helical structures; heterostructures; interfaces; nanostructures; photoanodes.