Nanostructured MoS2 as Non-noble Metal-Based Cocatalyst for Photocatalytic Applications

In photocatalytic applications replacing expensive noble metals as cocatalyst is very much essential for sustainable development in the field of energy and environmental applications. Noble metal-based cocatalysts can improve. However, it is not economical because of the high cost. To avoid these noble metals, transition metal sulfides like MoS2, NiS, etc. have been applied as cocatalysts because of abundance, low cost, and excellent optical and electrical properties. Among various metal dichalcogenides, MoS2 has attracted considerable interest owing to its significant advantages over noble metals because of its low cost, nontoxicity, and highly active and excellent chemical stability. This chapter mainly deals with basic properties, synthesis, and various applications of MOS2 as a non-noble metal-based cocatalyst for photocatalytic applications. Synthesis strategies like solvo-/hydrothermal and chemical exfoliation methods are discussed. More importantly, recent studies on non-noble metal-based MoS2-loaded semiconductors for hydrogen generation and strategies for enhanced H2 generation are explored in detail. Other applications of MoS2 as non-noble metal-based cocatalysts such as photocatalytic dye degradation, toxic metal ion reduction, bacterial disinfection, and their mechanisms are discussed.