Solvothermal Synthesis of ZnIn2S4 by Alcohol Solvents and Visible Light Photocatalytic Activity on Selective Oxidation and Dye Degradation

A series of hexagonal ZnInSsamples with different morphologies have been successfully prepared via a facile solvothermal approach using different alcohol solvents with the optimum synthesis time and temperature. X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, UV-vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy and photoelectrochemical measurements are employed to determine the properties of the samples. It is found that the solvent has a significant influence on the morphology, optical properties and electronic nature of the samples. The photocatalytic activities of the samples have been evaluated by selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde to benzaldehyde and the degradation of methyl orange(MO) under visible light irradiation. The results reveal that the photocatalytic activities of ZnInSare closely related to the reaction solvent. The ethanol-mediated ZnInSexhibits the best photocatalytic performance toward selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde and the degradation of dye MO compared to the samples prepared in other solvents, which can be attributed to the integrative effect of the enhanced light absorption intensity and the prolonged lifetime of photogenerated carriers. In addition, a possible mechanism is proposed and discussed. It is expected that our current research could promote further interest on the synthesizing efficient ternary chalcogenides semiconducting materials for environment remediation and organic transformation.