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Heterostructured ZnS-ZnO-CuS-CdS photocatalyst was synthesized via a sequential fabrication approach (ZnS→thermal treatment (ZnS-ZnO)→CuS formation (ZnS-ZnO-CuS)→CdS addition (ZnS-ZnO-CuS-CdS)). Each component in this heterostructure has its own role for photocatalytic reaction. The oxide content controlled by thermal processing condition is a crucial factor for improving photocatalytic activity, and the CuS and CdS contents are controlled by their feedstocks. The effects of heterostructure composition on the solar water splitting and organic dye decomposition were investigated under 1 sun irradiation (100 mW/cm 2 , AM 1.5 G filter). The content optimized ZnSZnO-CuS-CdS photocatalyst produces 2452.7 µmol g −1 h −1 hydrogen, and it decomposes methyl blue much faster than the other cases. Thus, heterostructured photocatalysts can benefit the use of electrons and holes for improved photocatalytic activity.

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