A regulated TiO2@NC@ZCS photocatalyst for efficient hydrogen evolution: insights into the role of carbon layer positioning†

Abstract

In this study, a TiO₂@NC@ZCS ternary photocatalyst with a well-defined hexahedral morphology was synthesized via MOF-derived pyrolysis and sulfidation methods, and its photocatalytic hydrogen production performance was thoroughly investigated. The results demonstrated that the unique interface design of TiO₂@NC@ZCS significantly enhanced light absorption, charge separation, and catalytic performance, achieving a remarkable hydrogen evolution rate of 10.244 mmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹. Comparative studies revealed that the precise placement of the carbon layer (NC) at the interface between TiO₂ and ZCS was critical for efficient charge transfer and uniform distribution of active sites, whereas samples with NC coating the ZCS surface exhibited significantly reduced charge separation efficiency and catalytic activity.