Developing a vulcanization approach to functionalize WO3 nanoplate photocatalysts with sulfide crystals for improved photoelectrochemical properties and environmental cleanup

ZnS/WO₃ composite nanoplates were created by a hydrothermal vulcanization reaction using ZnO as the sacrificial layer. ZnO films were deposited on the surface of WO₃ nanoplates with different sputtering times to act as templates for the hydrothermal synthesis of ZnS/WO₃ nanoplates with different ZnS contents. Structural analysis revealed the sputtering time of the ZnO sacrificial shell layer affected the surface morphology and crystal defects of the ZnS/WO₃ composite materials. The formation of tight heterojunction interfaces and an appropriate number of heterojunctions enhanced the transport of charge carriers, resulting in improved photocatalytic efficiency. Compared to pristine WO₃ nanoplates, the ZnS/WO₃ (WZS) series composite materials showed superior photoelectrochemical properties. The WZS350 composite sample with 3.1 at% Zn and 3.3 at% S was identified as the best photocatalyst. The experimental results of this study demonstrate that WO₃ nanoplates with appropriate ZnS particle modification can effectively regulate their surface photosensitivity, offering a promising approach for the application of photocatalysts.