LAUSR

Abstract Semiconductor-metal heterostructure, especially represented by various inorganic semiconductors-platinum (Pt) hybrids, is widely applied in converting solar power to chemical energy. Given the scarcity of Pt and the availability of coupling, the development of a non-Pt regimen and facile assembly strategy is critical. In this study, CdxZn1-xS/Ti3C2 ultrathin MXene composites were availably prepared with a facile electrostatic assembly strategy. The unique 0D/2D assembly demonstrated remarkably enhanced performance toward photocatalytic hydrogen production compared with bare CdxZn1-xS. Spectroscopic characterization analysis and band theory discussion substantiated the effects of electronic interaction and the Schottky barrier arising from intimate contact of CdxZn1-xS and Ti3C2 MXene on the swift separation of photoinduced electron-hole pairs. Successful application of electrostatic self-assembled CdxZn1-xS with ultrathin MXene opens a new area of utilizing electrical difference and band theory to prepare rational semiconductor/MXene Schottky structure towards various photocatalytic reactions.