CdS/ZnIn2S4/TiO2 3D-heterostructures and their photoelectrochemical properties

We describe the synthesis and application of a three-dimensional (3D) CdS quantum dot/ZnIn2S4 nanosheet/TiO2 nanotube array (CdS/ZnIn2S4/TiO2) heterostructured material architecture. TiO2 nanotube arrays (TiO2 NTAs) are used as the synthetic template, subsequently sensitized using hydrothermal and successive ion layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) techniques. The described synthesis approach offers a powerful technique in the design of 3D heterostructure systems. Under AM1.5G illumination, the 3D CdS/ZnIn2S4/TiO2 samples generate a photocurrent of approximately 4.3 mA cm−2, with a photoconversion efficiency of 2%. Samples are tested for their ability to photocatalytically degrade target agents; it is noteworthy that after 90 min illumination 100% of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is removed.