Sacrificial-template-free synthesis of core-shell C@Bi2S3 heterostructures for efficient supercapacitor and H2 production applications

Core-shell heterostructures have attracted considerable attention owing to their unique properties and broad range of applications in lithium ion batteries, supercapacitors, and catalysis. Conversely, the effective synthesis of Bi 2 S 3 nanorod core@ amorphous carbon shell heterostructure remains an important challenge. In this study, C@Bi 2 S 3 core-shell heterostructures with enhanced supercapacitor performance were synthesized via sacrificial- template-free one-pot-synthesis method. The highest specific capacities of the C@Bi 2 S 3 core shell was 333.43 F g −1 at a current density of 1 A g −1 . Core-shell-structured C@Bi 2 S 3 exhibits 1.86 times higher photocatalytic H 2 production than the pristine Bi 2 S 3 under simulated solar light irradiation. This core-shell feature of C@Bi 2 S 3 provides efficient charge separation and transfer owing to the formed heterojunction and a short radial transfer path, thus efficiently diminishing the charge recombination; it also facilitates plenty of active sites for the hydrogen evolution reaction owing to its mesoporous nature. These outcomes will open opportunities for developing low-cost and noble-metal-free efficient electrode materials for water splitting and supercapacitor applications.