Noble-Metal-Free Molybdenum Disulfide Cocatalyst for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production

ChemSusChem. 2015 Dec 21;8(24):4113-27. doi: 10.1002/cssc.201501203. Epub 2015 Nov 20.

Abstract

Photocatalytic water splitting using powered semiconductors as photocatalysts represents a promising strategy for clean, low-cost, and environmentally friendly production of H2 utilizing solar energy. The loading of noble-metal cocatalysts on semiconductors can significantly enhance the solar-to-H2 conversion efficiency. However, the high cost and scarcity of noble metals counter their extensive utilization. Therefore, the use of alternative cocatalysts based on non-precious metal materials is pursued. Nanosized MoS2 cocatalysts have attracted considerable attention in the last decade as a viable alternative to improve solar-to-H2 conversion efficiency because of its superb catalytic activity, excellent stability, low cost, availability, environmental friendliness, and chemical inertness. In this perspective, the design, structures, synthesis, and application of MoS2 -based composite photocatalysts for solar H2 generation are summarized, compared, and discussed. Finally, this Review concludes with a summary and remarks on some challenges and opportunities for the future development of MoS2 -based photocatalysts.

Keywords: cocatalysts; composites; molybdenum disulfide; photocatalysis; solar hydrogen generation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Catalysis
  • Coloring Agents / chemistry
  • Disulfides / chemistry*
  • Hydrogen / chemistry*
  • Molybdenum / chemistry*
  • Photochemical Processes*
  • Sunlight

Substances

  • Coloring Agents
  • Disulfides
  • Hydrogen
  • Molybdenum
  • molybdenum disulfide