Local polarization redistribution in ZnmIn2S3+m for the enhancing synergetic piezo-photocatalytic overall water splitting.

Piezo-photocatalytic water (deuterium oxide) decomposition is a promising strategy for realizing renewable energy, but the manipulation of the polar center remains a big challenge. This study uses a simple low-temperature hydrothermal process to successfully manufacture ZnmIn2Sm+3 (m = 1-3) (ZnIn2S4, Zn2In2S5 and Zn3In2S6). Incorporating both experimental and theoretical analyses, the structural contraction and local polarization of the Zn-S bond in Zn2In2S5 enhance the piezoelectric response and surface charge accumulation, which facilitate charge transfer and reduce the activation energy of water. Remarkably, Zn2In2S5 exhibits excellent piezoelectric photocatalytic total water splitting performance (H2/O2: 4284.72/1967.00 µmol g-1h-1), which is 1.77 times that of photocatalytic performance. Moreover, a significant enhancement in D2O splitting performance can be obtained for the optimized Zn2In2S5. Our work offers valuable insights into the disclosure of local polarization in catalysts for enhancing piezo-photocatalytic overall water splitting.

Reductive Coupling of P(O)-H Compounds and Aldehydes for the General Synthesis of Phosphines and Phosphine Oxides.

A novel strategy for the selective construction of a C(sp3)-P(III) or -P(V) bond from >P(O)-H compounds and aldehydes is disclosed. By using the H3PO3/I2 system, various secondary phosphine oxides could react with both aromatic and aliphatic aldehydes to afford valuable phosphines (isolated as sulfides) and phosphine oxides in good yields. This method features a wide substrate scope and simple reaction conditions and avoids the use of toxic halides and metals.