Self-assembly of CdS quantum dots with polyoxometalate encapsulated gold nanoparticles: enhanced photocatalytic activities

The molecular self-assembled nanohybrids CdS QDs–POM–Au NPs can be synthesized by a convenient, efficient and environmentally friendly strategy. The POMs, which function as the reducing, encapsulating molecules and bridging molecules, not only successfully realize the strong coupling of the different nanoparticles, but also enhance the electron transfer among the components of the nanohybrids. More importantly, the present nanohybrids can effectively harvest visible light and show synergistic photocatalytic activity both in photoproduction of hydrogen and degradation of organic pollutants. This synthesis method is versatile and promising for the design and development of other new solar energy hybrid systems.