Outside-in recrystallization of ZnS-Cu1.8 S hollow spheres with interdispersed lattices for enhanced visible light solar hydrogen generation.

For the first time an earth-abundant and nontoxic ZnS-Cu(1.8) S hybrid photocatalyst has been engineered with well-defined nanosheet hollow structures by a template-engaged method. In contrast to conventional surface coupling and loading, the unique outside-in recrystallization promotes co-precipitation of ZnS and Cu(1.8) S into homogeneous interdispersed lattices, hence forming a hybrid semiconductor with visible responsive photocatalytic activity. The as-derived ZnS-Cu(1.8) S semiconductor alloy is tailored into a hierarchical hollow structure to provide readily accessible porous shells and interior spaces for effective ion transfer/exchange. Notably, this synergistic morphology, interface and crystal lattice engineering, aim towards the design of novel nanocatalysts for various sustainable environmental and energy applications.