EDTA Linker for S-scheme CdS/Spinel Oxides Heterojunction Photocatalyst for Visible-Light-Driven Hydrogen Production

Herein, the fabrication of S-scheme CdS/ZMO photocatalysts through EDTA bridges for hydrogen production was reported. In this system, the role of EDTA molecules as a linker for binding CdS and ZMO (ZnMn₂O₄/Mn₃O₄ spinel oxides composite) was investigated in detail. The optimized sample showed superior photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 26.34 mmol.g⁻¹.h⁻¹, nearly two times higher than the system without EDTA. The outstanding photocatalytic activity could be due to the efficient charge transfers caused by the interaction between EDTA molecules and two semiconductors. This study provides a clear insight into the critical role of inexpensive organic electron mediators in enhancing the photocatalytic performance of heterojunction photocatalysts.