Enhanced photocatalytic CO2 reduction via single-atom Au anchored on ZnIn2S4 nanosheets

In this study, we systematically investigated the effect of single-atom gold (Au) loaded on ZnIn 2 S 4 nanosheets on the photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ). Utilizing a photodeposition method, we successfully dispersed single-atom Au uniformly on the surface of ZnIn 2 S 4 nanosheets. Under simulated sunlight irradiation, the Au-loaded catalyst demonstrated a higher yield and selectivity in the CO 2 reduction reaction compared to the pure ZnIn 2 S 4 nanosheets. Surface photovoltage testing revealed that the addition of Au significantly enhanced the separation efficiency of photo-generated charge carriers, thereby improving the photocatalytic efficiency. Density functional theory calculations indicated that the loading of single-atom Au reduced the reaction energy barrier from CO 2 to CO, enhancing the selectivity of photocatalytic CO 2 reduction. This research not only developed an efficient catalyst for CO 2 reduction but also provided deep insights into the mechanism of single-atom catalysts in the photocatalytic CO 2 reduction process through extensive experimental and theoretical analysis.