Preparation of Zn$^{2+}$-doped CuS hollow spheres by one-step synthesis and its photocatalytic performance in visible light

At present, photocatalytic water treatment technology has important potential application value in the field of green energy. It is very attractive to prepare efficient photocatalysts by simple and green methods. In this study, a simple, low temperature, low cost and green low temperature water bath stirring method was designed to synthesize the well-dispersed Zn$^{2+}$-doped CuS hollow sphere photocatalyst in one step. The morphology, structure and composition of the obtained products were examined by field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Zn$^{2+}$ doping forms carrier traps, which improve the transfer rate of electrons to the surface of the catalyst, significantly enhance its visible light response, and reduce the recombination rate of electron holes. Combined with the special interconnection channel and large specific surface area of the hollow sphere structure, it provides more surface active sites for adsorption and makes photocatalysis more efficient. The reaction rate of the prepared hollow spherical Zn$^{2+}$-doped CuS catalyst reached 0,04736 min$^{-1}$, which was 12 times that of pure CuS.