Sulfur-Doped Graphene Oxide Quantum Dots as Photocatalysts for Hydrogen Generation in the Aqueous Phase

Sulfur-doped graphene oxide quantum dots (S-GOQDs) were synthesized and investigated for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen generation application. The UV/Vis, FTIR, and photoluminescence spectra of the synthesized S-GOQDs exhibit three absorption bands at 333, 395, and 524 nm, characteristic of C=S and C−S stretching vibration signals at 1075 and 690 cm⁻¹, and two excitation-wavelength-independent emission signals with maxima at 451 and 520 nm, respectively, confirming the successful doping of S atom into the GOQDs. Electronic structural analysis suggested that the S-GOQDs exhibit conduction band minimum (CBM) and valence band maximum (VBM) levels suitable for water splitting. Under direct sunlight irradiation, an initial rate of 18 166 μmol h⁻¹ g⁻¹ in pure water and 30 519 μmol h⁻¹ g⁻¹ in 80 % ethanol aqueous solution were obtained. Therefore, metal-free and inexpensive S-GOQDs hold great potential in the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly photocatalysts for efficient hydrogen generation from water splitting.