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

Abstract

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.