Inducing photocarrier separation via 3D porous faveolate cross-linked carbon to enhance photothermal/pyroelectric property

The CdS/Bi2S3 supported three-dimensional (3D) porous faveolate carbon structure (CdS/Bi2S3@C) composite photocatalyst was constructed. Bi2S3 nanoparticles are regarded as photothermal agents and pyroelectric materials to absorb near infrared light (NIR) and convert it into heat. 3D porous faveolate of carbon acts as incubator to reduce heat loss and optimize photothermal effects. There is a greater fluctuating temperature difference (ΔΤ) between photothermal effect of Bi2S3 and cold photocatalytic system. This enhances the pyroelectric effect that Bi2S3 undergoes spontaneous polarization and releases the surface charge. Therefore, the separation of electrons and holes in the CdS photocatalyst can be induced. The COMSOL simulation results show that, the higher pyroelectric potential producted by larger ΔΤ is more favorable to the photocatalytic process. The hydrogen evolution rate of CdS/Bi2S3@C photocatalyst can reach 5.88 ​mmol·g−1·h−1 with excellent cycle stability.