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Keywords = interfacial carrier transfer

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18 pages, 4136 KiB  
Article
Interfacial Electric Fields and Chemical Bonds in Ti3C2O-Crafted AgI/MoS2 Direct Z-Scheme Heterojunction Synergistically Expedite Photocatalytic Performance
by Suxing Jiao, Tianyou Chen, Yiran Ying, Yincheng Liu and Jing Wu
Catalysts 2025, 15(8), 740; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15080740 - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 166
Abstract
The photocatalytic performance of heterojunctions is often restricted by inferior contact interface and low charge transfer efficiency. In this work, Ti3C2O MXene was crafted with AgI/MoS2 to produce a Z-scheme heterojunction (AgI/MoS2/Ti3C2O). [...] Read more.
The photocatalytic performance of heterojunctions is often restricted by inferior contact interface and low charge transfer efficiency. In this work, Ti3C2O MXene was crafted with AgI/MoS2 to produce a Z-scheme heterojunction (AgI/MoS2/Ti3C2O). Interfacial electric fields and chemical bonds were proven to exist in the heterojunction. The interfacial electric fields supplied a powerful driving force, and the interfacial Ti-O-Mo bonds served as an atomic-level channel for synergistically expediting the vectorial transfer of photogenerated carriers. As a result, AgI/MoS2/Ti3C2O exhibited significantly improved photocatalytic activity, demonstrating a high H2O2 production rate of 700 μmol·g−1·h−1 and a rapid degradation of organic pollutants. Full article
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14 pages, 7478 KiB  
Article
Constructing a Ta3N5/Tubular Graphitic Carbon Nitride Van Der Waals Heterojunction for Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
by Junbo Yu, Guiming Ba, Fuhong Bi, Huilin Hu, Jinhua Ye and Defa Wang
Catalysts 2025, 15(7), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15070691 - 20 Jul 2025
Viewed by 404
Abstract
Constructing a heterojunction is considered one of the most effective strategies for enhancing photocatalytic activity. Herein, we employ Ta3N5 and tubular graphitic carbon nitride (TCN) to construct a Ta3N5/TCN van der Waals heterojunction via electrostatic self-assembly [...] Read more.
Constructing a heterojunction is considered one of the most effective strategies for enhancing photocatalytic activity. Herein, we employ Ta3N5 and tubular graphitic carbon nitride (TCN) to construct a Ta3N5/TCN van der Waals heterojunction via electrostatic self-assembly for enhanced photocatalytic H2 production. SEM and TEM results show that Ta3N5 particles (~300 nm in size) are successfully anchored onto the surface of TCN. The light absorption capability of the Ta3N5/TCN heterojunction is between those of Ta3N5 and TCN. The strong interaction between Ta3N5 and TCN with different energy structures (Fermi levels) by van der Waals force renders the formation of an interfacial electric field to drive the separation and transfer of photogenerated charge carriers in the Ta3N5/TCN heterojunction, as evidenced by the photoluminescence (PL) and photoelectrochemical (PEC) characterization results. Consequently, the optimal Ta3N5/TCN heterojunction exhibits a remarkable H2 production rate of 12.73 mmol g−1 h−1 under visible light irradiation, which is 3.3 and 16.8 times those of TCN and Ta3N5, respectively. Meanwhile, the cyclic experiment demonstrates excellent stability of the Ta3N5/TCN heterojunction upon photocatalytic reaction. Notably, the photocatalytic performance of 15-TaN/TCN outperforms the most previously reported CN-based and Ta3N5-based heterojunctions for H2 production. This work provides a new avenue for the rational design of CN-based van der Waals heterojunction photocatalysts with enhanced photocatalytic activity. Full article
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16 pages, 1820 KiB  
Article
Ultrafast Study of Interfacial Charge Transfer Mechanism in Assembled Systems of CsPbBr3 and Titanium Dioxide: Size Effect of CsPbBr3
by Ying Lv, Menghan Duan, Jie An, Yunpeng Wang and Luchao Du
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(14), 1065; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15141065 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 397
Abstract
Lead halide perovskite quantum dots, also known as perovskite nanocrystals, are considered one of the most promising photovoltaic materials for solar cells due to their outstanding optoelectronic properties and simple preparation techniques. The key factors restricting the photoelectric conversion efficiency of solar cell [...] Read more.
Lead halide perovskite quantum dots, also known as perovskite nanocrystals, are considered one of the most promising photovoltaic materials for solar cells due to their outstanding optoelectronic properties and simple preparation techniques. The key factors restricting the photoelectric conversion efficiency of solar cell systems are the separation and transmission performances of charge carriers. Here, femtosecond time-resolved ultrafast spectroscopy was used to measure the interfacial charge transfer dynamics of different sizes of CsPbBr3 assembled with TiO2. The effect of perovskite size on the charge transfer is discussed. According to our experimental data analysis, the time constants of the interfacial electron transfer and charge recombination of the assembled systems of CsPbBr3 and titanium dioxide become larger when the size of the CsPbBr3 nanocrystals increases. We discuss the physical mechanism by which the size of perovskites affects the rate of charge transfer in detail. We expect that our experimental results provide experimental support for the application of novel quantum dots for solar cell materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals and Thin Films)
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12 pages, 3952 KiB  
Article
Rationally Designed 2D CZIS/2D Ti3CNTx Heterojunctions for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
by Peize Li, Zhiying Wang and Xiaofei Yang
Catalysts 2025, 15(7), 632; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15070632 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 478
Abstract
Highly efficient photocatalysts for solar energy conversion require effective charge carrier separation and rapid interfacial transport kinetics to maximize electron availability. Two-dimensional Ti3CNTx, a novel conductive material in the MXene family with exceptional electrical conductivity, has emerged as an [...] Read more.
Highly efficient photocatalysts for solar energy conversion require effective charge carrier separation and rapid interfacial transport kinetics to maximize electron availability. Two-dimensional Ti3CNTx, a novel conductive material in the MXene family with exceptional electrical conductivity, has emerged as an ideal electron transfer mediator due to its large specific surface area and abundant active terminal groups. In this work, we strategically integrated the 2D multi-metal sulfide Cu-Zn-In-S (CZIS) with 2D Ti3CNTx nanosheets through physical mixture, constructing a heterostructured 2D/2D CZIS/Ti3CNTx composite photocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction. The unique architecture significantly accelerates electron migration from CZIS to Ti3CNTx, while synergistically promoting the spatial separation and directional transfer of photogenerated electron–hole pairs (e/h+). When the hydrogen evolution reaction is carried out under identical conditions, the hydrogen yield rate is 4.3 mmol g−1 h−1 with pristine CZIS but is improved dramatically to 14.3 mmol g−1 h−1 when the composite containing an adequate amount of 2D Ti3CNTx is used. This study offers new insight into the rational design and controllable synthesis of Ti3CNTx-based composite photocatalytic systems for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen production. Full article
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43 pages, 9107 KiB  
Review
A Review on Pre-, In-Process, and Post-Synthetic Strategies to Break the Surface Area Barrier in g-C3N4 for Energy Conversion and Environmental Remediation
by Mingming Gao, Minghao Zhao, Qianqian Yang, Lan Bao, Liwei Chen, Wei Liu and Jing Feng
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(13), 956; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15130956 - 20 Jun 2025
Viewed by 417
Abstract
Nanomaterials with large specific surface area (SSA) have emerged as pivotal platforms for energy storage and environmental remediation, primarily due to their enhanced active site exposure, improved mass transport capabilities, and superior interfacial reactivity. Among them, polymeric carbon nitride (g-C3N4 [...] Read more.
Nanomaterials with large specific surface area (SSA) have emerged as pivotal platforms for energy storage and environmental remediation, primarily due to their enhanced active site exposure, improved mass transport capabilities, and superior interfacial reactivity. Among them, polymeric carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has garnered significant attention in energy and environmental applications owing to its visible-light-responsive bandgap (~2.7 eV), exceptional thermal/chemical stability, and earth-abundant composition. However, the practical performance of g-C3N4 is fundamentally constrained by intrinsic limitations, including its inherently low SSA (<20 m2/g via conventional thermal polymerization), rapid recombination of photogenerated carriers, and inefficient charge transfer kinetics. Notably, the theoretical SSA of g-C3N4 reaches 2500 m2/g, yet achieving this value remains challenging due to strong interlayer van der Waals interactions and structural collapse during synthesis. Recent advances demonstrate that state-of-the-art strategies can elevate its SSA to 50–200 m2/g. To break this surface area barrier, advanced strategies achieve SSA enhancement through three primary pathways: pre-treatment (molecular and supramolecular precursor design), in process (templating and controlled polycondensation), and post-processing (chemical exfoliation and defect engineering). This review systematically examines controllable synthesis methodologies for high-SSA g-C3N4, analyzing how SSA amplification intrinsically modulates band structures, extends carrier lifetimes, and boosts catalytic efficiencies. Future research should prioritize synergistic multi-stage engineering to approach the theoretical SSA limit (2500 m2/g) while preserving robust optoelectronic properties. Full article
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14 pages, 3835 KiB  
Article
Z-Scheme ZnO/ZnAl2O4 Heterojunction with Synergistic Effects for Enhanced Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
by Minhui Pan, Linlin Zheng, Congyu Cai and Weiwei Wang
Molecules 2025, 30(12), 2626; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30122626 - 17 Jun 2025
Viewed by 386
Abstract
The photocatalytic reduction of CO2 into valuable hydrocarbons presents significant potential. In this research, a ZnO/ZnAl2O4 composite photocatalyst was synthesized using the hydrothermal method, resulting in a marked enhancement in CO yield—approximately three times greater than that achieved with [...] Read more.
The photocatalytic reduction of CO2 into valuable hydrocarbons presents significant potential. In this research, a ZnO/ZnAl2O4 composite photocatalyst was synthesized using the hydrothermal method, resulting in a marked enhancement in CO yield—approximately three times greater than that achieved with pure ZnAl2O4 nanoparticles. The formation of a Z-scheme heterojunction between ZnO and ZnAl2O4 was observed, characterized by low interfacial charge transfer resistance, an abundance of reaction sites, and optimized charge transport pathways. Within this composite, ZnO contributes additional vacancies, thereby increasing active sites and enhancing the separation and migration of photogenerated carriers. In situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) analysis indicates that ZnAl2O4 facilitates the formation of key intermediates, such as *COOH and HCO3, thus promoting the conversion of CO2 to CO. This study offers valuable insights into the design of heterogeneous catalysts with diverse active components to enhance the performance of CO2 photocatalytic reduction through synergistic effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Chemistry)
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23 pages, 4811 KiB  
Article
In2S3/C3N4 Nanocomposite and Its Photoelectric Properties in the Broadband Light Spectrum Range
by Xingfa Ma, Xintao Zhang, Mingjun Gao, Ruifen Hu, You Wang and Guang Li
Coatings 2025, 15(6), 718; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15060718 - 14 Jun 2025
Viewed by 388
Abstract
To extend the spectral utilisation of In2S3, an In2S3/C3N4 nanocomposite was prepared. The effects of different sulphur sources, electrodes, and bias voltages on the optoelectronic performance were examined. Photoelectric properties in response [...] Read more.
To extend the spectral utilisation of In2S3, an In2S3/C3N4 nanocomposite was prepared. The effects of different sulphur sources, electrodes, and bias voltages on the optoelectronic performance were examined. Photoelectric properties in response to light sources with wavelengths of 405, 532, 650, 780, 808, 980, and 1064 nm were investigated using Au electrodes and the carbon electrodes with 5B pencil drawings. This study shows that the aggregation states of the In2S3/C3N4 nanocomposite possess photocurrent switching responses in the broadband region of the light spectrum. Combining two types of partially visible light-absorbing material extends utilisation to the near-infrared region. Impurities or defects embody an electron-donating effect. Since the energy levels of defects or impurities with an electron-donating effect are close to the conduction band, low-energy lights (especially NIR) can be utilised. The non-equilibrium carrier concentration (photogenerated electrons) of the nanocomposites increases significantly under NIR photoexcitation conditions. Thus, photoconductive behaviour is manifested. A good photoelectric signal was still measured when zero bias was applied. This demonstrates self-powered photoelectric response characteristics. Different sulphur sources significantly affect the photoelectric performance, suggesting that they create different defects that affect charge transport and base current noise. It is believed that interfacial interactions in the In2S3/C3N4 nanocomposite create a built-in electric field that enhances the separation and transfer of electrons and holes produced by light stimulation. The presence of the built-in electric field also leads to energy band bending, which facilitates the utilisation of the light with longer wavelengths. This study provides a reference for multidisciplinary applications. Full article
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41 pages, 1254 KiB  
Review
Hydrogen Production Through Newly Developed Photocatalytic Nanostructures and Composite Materials
by Amra Bratovčić and Vesna Tomašić
Processes 2025, 13(6), 1813; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13061813 - 7 Jun 2025
Viewed by 2106
Abstract
Photocatalytic hydrogen (H2) production offers a promising solution to energy shortages and environmental challenges by converting solar energy into chemical energy. Hydrogen, as a versatile energy carrier, can be generated through photocatalysis under sunlight or via electrolysis powered by solar or [...] Read more.
Photocatalytic hydrogen (H2) production offers a promising solution to energy shortages and environmental challenges by converting solar energy into chemical energy. Hydrogen, as a versatile energy carrier, can be generated through photocatalysis under sunlight or via electrolysis powered by solar or wind energy. However, the advancement of photocatalysis is hindered by the limited availability of effective visible light-responsive semiconductors and the challenges of charge separation and transport. To address these issues, researchers are focusing on the development of novel nanostructured semiconductors and composite materials that can enhance photocatalytic performance. In this paper, we provide an overview of the advanced photocatalytic materials prepared so far that can be activated by sunlight, and their efficiency in H2 production. One of the key strategies in this research area concerns improving the separation and transfer of electron–hole pairs generated by light, which can significantly boost H2 production. Advanced hybrid materials, such as organic–inorganic hybrid composites consisting of a combination of polymers with metal oxide photocatalysts, and the creation of heterojunctions, are seen as effective methods to improve charge separation and interfacial interactions. The development of Schottky heterojunctions, Z-type heterojunctions, p–n heterojunctions from nanostructures, and the incorporation of nonmetallic atoms have proven to reduce photocorrosion and enhance photocatalytic efficiency. Despite these advancements, designing efficient semiconductor-based heterojunctions at the atomic scale remains a significant challenge for the realization of large-scale photocatalytic H2 production. In this review, state-of-the-art advancements in photocatalytic hydrogen production are presented and discussed in detail, with a focus on photocatalytic nanostructures, heterojunctions and hybrid composites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Processes and Systems)
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14 pages, 3371 KiB  
Article
Nitrogen-Defect-Driven PtCu Dual-Atom Catalyst for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
by Xin He, Ting Liu, Hao Wang and Yongming Luo
Catalysts 2025, 15(6), 558; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15060558 - 4 Jun 2025
Viewed by 522
Abstract
Owing to global energy demands and climate change resulting from fossil fuel use, technologies capable of converting greenhouse gases into renewable energy resources are needed. One such technology is photocatalytic CO2 reduction, which utilises solar energy to transform CO2 into value-added [...] Read more.
Owing to global energy demands and climate change resulting from fossil fuel use, technologies capable of converting greenhouse gases into renewable energy resources are needed. One such technology is photocatalytic CO2 reduction, which utilises solar energy to transform CO2 into value-added hydrocarbons. However, the application of photocatalytic CO2 reduction is limited by the inefficiency of existing photocatalysts. In this study, we developed a nitrogen-deficient g-C3N4-confined PtCu dual-atom catalyst (PtCu/VN-C3N4) for photocatalytic CO2 reduction. Aberration-corrected high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy and X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy confirmed the atomic-level anchoring of PtCu pairs onto the nitrogen-vacancy-rich g-C3N4 nanosheets. The optimised PtCu/VN-C3N4 exhibited superior photocatalytic performance, with CO and CH4 evolution rates of 13.3 µmol/g/h and 2.5 µmol/g/h, respectively, under visible-light irradiation. Mechanistic investigations revealed that CO2 molecules were preferentially adsorbed onto the PtCu dual sites, initiating a stepwise reduction pathway. In situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier-transform spectroscopy identified the formation of a key intermediate (HCOO*), whereas interfacial wettability studies demonstrated efficient H2O adsorption on PtCu sites, providing essential proton sources for CO2 protonation. Photoelectrochemical characterisation further confirmed the enhanced charge-transfer kinetics in PtCu/VN-C3N4, which were attributed to the synergistic interplay between the nitrogen vacancies and dual-atom sites. Notably, the dual-active-site architecture minimised the competitive adsorption between CO2 and H2O molecules, thereby optimising the surface reaction pathways. This study establishes a rational strategy for designing atomically precise dual-atom catalysts through defect engineering, achieving concurrent improvements in activity, selectivity, and charge carrier utilisation for solar-driven CO2 conversion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Photocatalysis)
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22 pages, 12429 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Photocatalytic Performance Study of TiO2-TMP Composites Under Effect of Crystal Structure Modulation
by Jiayi Zhang, Chen Wang, Xiaoguo Shi, Qing Feng and Tingting Shen
Materials 2025, 18(11), 2623; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18112623 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 459
Abstract
Nano-titanium dioxide (TiO2) is currently the most widely studied photocatalyst. However, its rapid recombination of photogenerated carriers and narrow range of light absorption have limited its development. Crystal form regulation and polymer modification are important means for improving the photocatalytic activity [...] Read more.
Nano-titanium dioxide (TiO2) is currently the most widely studied photocatalyst. However, its rapid recombination of photogenerated carriers and narrow range of light absorption have limited its development. Crystal form regulation and polymer modification are important means for improving the photocatalytic activity of single-phase materials. In this paper, TiO2 materials of different crystal forms were prepared by changing the synthesis conditions, and they were compounded with trimesoyl chloride–melamine polymers (TMPs) by the hydrothermal synthesis method. Then, their photocatalytic performance was evaluated by degrading methylene blue (MB) under visible light. The mechanisms of influence of TiO2 crystal form on the photocatalytic activity of TiO2-TMP were explored by combining characterization and theoretical calculation. The results showed that the TiO2 crystal form, through interface interaction, the built-in electric field intensity of the heterojunction, and active sites, affected the interface charge separation and transfer, thereby influencing the photocatalytic activity of TiO2-TMP. In the 4T-TMP photocatalytic system, the degradation rate of MB was the highest. These studies provide theoretical support for understanding the structure–property relationship of the interfacial electronic coupling between TiO2 crystal forms and TMP, as well as for developing more efficient catalysts for pollutant degradation. Full article
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12 pages, 3151 KiB  
Article
Photocurrent Generation and Collection in a WSe2-Based Composite Detector
by Yulin Zhu, Sheng Ni, Fengyi Zhu, Zhenzhi Hu, Changyi Pan, Xuhao Fan, Yuhang Ma, Shian Mi, Changlong Liu, Weiwei Tang, Guanhai Li and Xiaoshuang Chen
Coatings 2025, 15(6), 672; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15060672 - 31 May 2025
Viewed by 616
Abstract
Two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals materials have been actively investigated for broadband, high-sensitivity, low-power-consumption photodetection owing to their highly customizable band structures and fast interfacial charge transfers. Studying photocurrent generation mechanisms provides insights into charge carrier dynamics in WSe2-based detectors, linking [...] Read more.
Two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals materials have been actively investigated for broadband, high-sensitivity, low-power-consumption photodetection owing to their highly customizable band structures and fast interfacial charge transfers. Studying photocurrent generation mechanisms provides insights into charge carrier dynamics in WSe2-based detectors, linking spatial factors (e.g., photocurrent generation/collection) with interfacial band alignment. Here, we employ scanning photocurrent microscopy to spatially resolve the processes of photocurrent generation and collection in WSe2-based composite structures. Photocurrent polarity and magnitude at interface reflects interfacial band alignment and potential gradients at metal–WSe2 and WSe2–In2Se3 junctions. Strong electric fields at metal–WSe2 interfaces drive more efficient electron–hole separation and yield higher photocurrents, compared with WSe2–In2Se3 interfaces. The photodetector exhibits broadband detection capabilities from visible to infrared light, achieving a high responsivity of 17.7 A/W and an excellent detectivity of 3.7 × 1012 Jones, as well as fast response times of <113 µs. Furthermore, object imaging with a resolution better than 0.5 mm was successfully demonstrated, highlighting the potential of this photoresponse for practical imaging applications. This work reveals that photocurrent is distributed with a clear dependence on device configuration, offering a new avenue for optimizing 2D material-based photoelectric devices. Full article
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34 pages, 7018 KiB  
Article
Strontium-Doped Tin Oxide Nanofibers for Enhanced Visible Light Photocatalysis
by Pranta Barua, Tan Thai, Kannoorpatti Krishnan and Naveen Kumar Elumalai
Energies 2025, 18(10), 2495; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18102495 - 12 May 2025
Viewed by 756
Abstract
This study investigates the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) using strontium-doped SnO2 nanofibers synthesized via electrospinning. The 1% Sr-doped SnO2 nanofibers exhibited remarkable photocatalytic activity, achieving 84.74% MB degradation under visible light irradiation, substantially outperforming both undoped SnO2 nanofibers [...] Read more.
This study investigates the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) using strontium-doped SnO2 nanofibers synthesized via electrospinning. The 1% Sr-doped SnO2 nanofibers exhibited remarkable photocatalytic activity, achieving 84.74% MB degradation under visible light irradiation, substantially outperforming both undoped SnO2 nanofibers (61%) and the same catalyst under UV light (69%) under identical experimental conditions. Comprehensive electrochemical investigations revealed that Sr doping fundamentally transformed interfacial charge transfer kinetics, with 1% Sr-doped nanofibers exhibiting a remarkable three-fold decrease in charge transfer resistance (404 Ω compared to 1350 Ω for undoped samples), a dramatic enhancement in charge carrier density (5.17 × 1022 versus 9.24 × 1019 for undoped samples), and an approximately eight-fold increase in diffusion coefficient (8.78 × 10−10 versus 1.13 × 10−10 cm2s−1). These electrochemical improvements were corroborated by comprehensive structural characterization, which demonstrated that strategic Sr incorporation induced beneficial oxygen vacancies, reduced crystallite size, increased microstrain, and enhanced dislocation density, collectively contributing to superior surface reactivity and accelerated photocatalytic mechanisms. This work establishes a quantitative correlation between electrochemical characteristics and photocatalytic activity in Sr-doped SnO2 nanofibers, revealing the fundamental mechanisms that transform the SnO2 nanostructure from UV-dependent to efficient visible light-driven catalysts for organic pollutant degradation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section D1: Advanced Energy Materials)
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14 pages, 5294 KiB  
Article
Interfacial Engineering of S-Scheme WO3/In2S3 Heterojunction for Efficient Solar-Driven CO2 Photoreduction
by Yameng Wang, Ao Xu, Jihui Lang, Bin Zuo, Zihan Yu, Keyu Cui, Xuefei Li, Kewei Zhang, Xin Li, Maobin Wei and Jian Cao
Catalysts 2025, 15(5), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15050460 - 8 May 2025
Viewed by 528
Abstract
CO2 photoreduction technology offers significant potential for addressing energy and environmental challenges, though its practical application is hindered by insufficient photo-absorption and rapid carrier recombination. Herein, we constructed the WO3/In2S3 S-scheme heterojunction through hydrothermal assembly of two-dimensional [...] Read more.
CO2 photoreduction technology offers significant potential for addressing energy and environmental challenges, though its practical application is hindered by insufficient photo-absorption and rapid carrier recombination. Herein, we constructed the WO3/In2S3 S-scheme heterojunction through hydrothermal assembly of two-dimensional WO3 nanosheets and scale-like In2S3 nanoflakes. Systematic characterization via XRD, XPS, SEM, and TEM verified the successful preparation of hierarchical nanostructures with optimized interfacial contact in the WO3/In2S3 composites. UV-Vis DRS analysis showed that the photo-absorption range of the catalyst was significantly widened. Photoelectrochemical investigations (EIS, TPR, PL, and LSV) revealed enhanced carrier separation efficiency and reduced recombination kinetics in the heterojunction system. The optimized WO3/In2S3 (WI-60) catalyst had a CO evolution efficiency of 55.14 μmol·g−1 under the UV-Vis light, representing a 3.9-fold enhancement over the pure In2S3 (14.08 μmol·g−1). Mechanistic studies through the XPS and band-structure analysis confirmed the establishment of an S-scheme carrier’ transfer pathway, which simultaneously preserved strong redox potentials and promoted the separation process of carriers. This research provides a validated strategy for developing efficient S-scheme photocatalytic systems for solar fuel generation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral-Based Composite Catalytic Materials)
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25 pages, 8659 KiB  
Review
Investigation on the Interfaces in Organic Devices by Photoemission Spectroscopy
by Haipeng Xie, Xianjun Cheng and Han Huang
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(9), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15090680 - 30 Apr 2025
Viewed by 840
Abstract
Organic semiconductors have garnered significant interest owing to their low cost, flexibility, and suitability for large-area electronics, making them vital for burgeoning fields such as flexible electronics, wearable devices, and green energy technologies. The performance of organic electronic devices is crucially determined by [...] Read more.
Organic semiconductors have garnered significant interest owing to their low cost, flexibility, and suitability for large-area electronics, making them vital for burgeoning fields such as flexible electronics, wearable devices, and green energy technologies. The performance of organic electronic devices is crucially determined by their interfacial electronic structure. Specifically, interfacial phenomena such as band bending significantly influence carrier injection, transport, and recombination, making their control paramount for enhancing device performance. This review investigates the interplay among molecular orientation, interfacial charge transfer, and interfacial chemical reactions as the primary drivers of interface band bending. Furthermore, it critically examines effective strategies for optimizing interfacial properties via interface engineering, focusing on interlayer insertion and template layer methods. The review concludes with a summary and outlook, emphasizing the integration of interface design with material development and device architecture to realize next-generation, high-performance organic electronic devices exhibiting improved efficiency and stability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanoelectronics, Nanosensors and Devices)
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14 pages, 3577 KiB  
Article
Two-Dimensional Lamellar Stacked Bi2O3/CeO2 Type-II Heterojunctions Promote Carrier Separation to Enhance Ciprofloxacin Oxidation
by Lihong Chen, Xiufei Zhao, Kuo Zhang, Biyu Wu, Xiao Yang, Haonan Zou, Lei Zhang, Huahao Shao, Tianyi Ma, Hu Zhou and Yusheng Zhang
Reactions 2025, 6(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/reactions6020029 - 23 Apr 2025
Viewed by 644
Abstract
The development of efficient and stable photocatalysts is critical for addressing water pollution challenges caused by persistent organic contaminants. However, single-component photocatalysts often suffer from rapid photogenerated carrier recombination and limited visible-light absorption. In this study, a two-dimensional lamellar stacked Bi2O [...] Read more.
The development of efficient and stable photocatalysts is critical for addressing water pollution challenges caused by persistent organic contaminants. However, single-component photocatalysts often suffer from rapid photogenerated carrier recombination and limited visible-light absorption. In this study, a two-dimensional lamellar stacked Bi2O3/CeO2 type-II heterojunction photocatalyst (BC) was successfully synthesized in situ by a topological transformation strategy induced by high-temperature oxidation of monolithic Bi. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses confirmed the uniform distribution of Bi2O3 nanosheets on CeO2 surfaces, forming an intimate interfacial contact that enhances charge separation and transfer efficiency. Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and electrochemical characterization revealed extended visible-light absorption (up to 550 nm) and accelerated electron migration in the heterojunction. Under simulated sunlight, the optimized BOC (3:1) composite exhibited a ciprofloxacin (CIP) degradation rate constant 2.30 and 5.63 times higher than pure Bi2O3 and CeO2, respectively. Theoretical calculations validated the type-II band alignment with conduction and valence band offsets of 0.07 eV and 0.17 eV, which facilitated efficient spatial separation of photogenerated carriers. This work provides a rational strategy for designing heterojunction photocatalysts and advancing their application in water purification. Full article
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