The effect of TiO2 and CdS catalysts on hydrogen production under UV radiation

Abstract

Photocatalysis, a phenomenon wherein light energy triggers chemical reactions, has demonstrated its prowess in applications such as water splitting, hydrogen production, and environmental pollutant degradation. A fundamental characteristic of photocatalysis is its reliance on light, particularly in the ultraviolet (UV) region, to initiate and sustain catalytic processes. This reliance on UV radiation offers several advantages, including increased energy input, selectivity, and efficiency. The environmentally benign nature of photocatalysis, in which pollutants are converted into harmless byproducts under sunlight, underscores its significance in sustainable energy solutions. Semiconductor materials, TiO2 and CdS, stand out as key components in the photocatalytic process. These materials exhibit unique electronic structures that enable them to effectively harness UV light and facilitate electron-hole pair generation, which is crucial for driving redox reactions. TiO2, a widely studied material, is valued for its non-toxicity, chemical stability, and exceptional UV-light absorption capabilities. CdS, on the other hand, is notable for its band structure, which permits efficient charge separation and migration. These semiconductors have thus garnered attention for their suitability in various photocatalytic applications. In our study, the effect of TiO2 semiconductor material doped with different concentrations of CdS on Hydrogen production was examined in the UV simulator we designed. The most efficient results were obtained in the reaction enhanced with 5% CdS in an electrolyte containing 50% ethanol.