Mo2N: An efficient non noble metal cocatalyst on CdS for enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution under visible light irradiation
Abstract Mo 2 N as an efficient non noble metal cocatalyst was firstly reported for improving photocatalytic H 2 evolution under visible light irradiation. The activity of 2.0% Mo 2 N/CdS is 6.1 times of CdS alone and 1.4 times of 1.0% Pt/CdS. The longevity test shows the Mo 2 N/CdS is very stable in 42 h. After 42 h, the activity of Mo 2 N/CdS gradually decreases. However, even after 90 h, the activity of Mo 2 N/CdS also keeps the 49% of that fresh catalyst. The molybdenum oxides, CdMoO 4 on the surface of Mo 2 N may combine CdS with Mo 2 N closely, protect Mo 2 N cocatalyst and inhibit the reversible reaction of H 2 production, thus increase the photocatalytic activity and the stability of Mo 2 N/CdS. This study demonstrates Mo 2 N is a new efficient low cost non noble metal cocatalyst in photocatalytic H 2 evolution.