A PtS QDs/ZnIn2S4 heterojunction catalyst for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen production and reduction of p-nitrophenol

In this study, PtS QDs/ZnIn 2 S 4 (PtS QDs/ZIS) composites were prepared, which can not only photocatalytically produce hydrogen, but also catalyze the reduction of organic pollutants. Photodeposition of PtS QDs on ZIS for simultaneous hydrogen evolution makes PtS QDs and ZIS form a closely contacted interface, accelerating the separation and migration of photogenerated carriers. It obtained an excellent photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate (20777.07 µmol‧g -1 ‧h -1 ) and the quantum efficiency at 430 nm was 13.25%. Also, the amount of hydrogen evolution of PtS QDs/ZIS was linear with time during the 8 h continuous test. Subsequently, PtS QDs/ZIS also showed efficient catalytic performance in the catalytic reduction of p-nitrophenol (4-NP), which can reach 99.87% at 7 min, so that it can quickly transfer electrons and can still maintain 95% reduction after six cycles. One-step photodeposition of PtS QDs provides a new idea for photocatalytic hydrogen production from water splitting and catalytic reduction of pollutants. • PtS QDs/ZnIn 2 S 4 catalyst is successfully fabricated by photodeposition of PtS QDs on ZnIn 2 S 4 nanosheets. • PtS QDs can improve the absorption and utilization of visible light by PtS QDs/ZnIn 2 S 4 , and promote the transfer of photogenerated carriers. • PtS QDs/ZnIn 2 S 4 has excellent photocatalytic hydrogen evolution and catalytic reduction of 4-NP. • As an efficient transition metal sulfide, PtS QDs can improve the utilization rate of precious metal Pt.