Recent advances of CuSbS2 and CuPbSbS3 as photocatalyst in the application of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution and degradation

Abstract

The realization of high-efficiency photocatalysis is greatly meaningful to overcome the issues of current energy and environment, in which the core factor is the exploration of photocatalysts with promising semiconductor properties. The Cu-based metal sulfide photocatalysts of CuSbS₂ and its derivative of bournonite CuPbSbS₃ possess the features of earth-abundant elements, strong photostability, visible-light range bandgap, and high absorption coefficient, possessing great potential for the realization of efficient photocatalytic applications. Although the photocatalysts of CuSbS₂ and CuPbSbS₃ have been investigated in photocatalysis application of hydrogen production and degradation, the exploration process is still in the early-development stage. In this review, the design concept and semiconductor properties of CuSbS₂ and CuPbSbS₃ are firstly introduced. Subsequently, the photocatalytic applications of CuSbS₂ and CuPbSbS₃ photocatalysts, mainly including hydrogen production and degradation, are systematically reviewed. Finally, the challenges and prospects for the further exploration of CuSbS₂ and CuPbSbS₃ photocatalysts are provided.