Structural Evolution of Ni-Based Co-Catalysts on [Ca2Nb3O10](-) Nanosheets during Heating and Their Photocatalytic Properties

Zhang, Siyuan; Diehl, Leo; Wrede, Sina; Lotsch, Bettina V. and Scheu, Christina (2020): Structural Evolution of Ni-Based Co-Catalysts on [Ca2Nb3O10](-) Nanosheets during Heating and Their Photocatalytic Properties. In: Catalysts, Vol. 10, No. 1, 13

Abstract

Nickel compounds are among the most frequently used co-catalysts for photocatalytic water splitting. By loading Ni(II) precursors, submonolayer Ni(OH)(2) was uniformly distributed onto photocatalytic [Ca2Nb3O10](-) nanosheets. Further heating of the nanocomposite was studied both ex situ in various gas environments and in situ under vacuum in the scanning transmission electron microscope. During heating in non-oxidative environments including H-2, argon and vacuum, Ni nanoparticles form at >= 200 degrees C, and they undergo Ostwald ripening at >= 500 degrees C. High resolution imaging and electron energy loss spectroscopy revealed a NiO shell around the Ni core. Ni loading of up to 3 wt% was demonstrated to enhance the rates of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. After heat treatment, a further increase in the reaction rate can be achieved thanks to the Ni core/NiO shell nanoparticles and their large separation.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Faculties: Chemistry and Pharmacy > Department of Chemistry
• Subjects: 500 Science > 540 Chemistry
• Language: English