University Chemistry ›› 2026, Vol. 41 ›› Issue (3): 381-389.doi: 10.12461/PKU.DXHX202504067

Special Issue:

• Chemistry Laboratory • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Synthesis of CoAl-LDH/CdS Material and Experimental Design for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction

Haiyan Zhang1, Min Yang1, Senpei Tang1, Xin Li2, Youji Li1   

  1. 1 National Demonstration Center for Chemistry Education, Jishou University, Jishou 416000, Hunan Province, China;
    2 Institute of Biomass Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510000, China
  • Received:2025-04-15 Accepted:2025-06-24 Published:2026-03-24
  • Contact: Xin Li, Youji Li E-mail:Jdyoujili@vip.163.com;xinli@scau.edu.cn

Abstract: In recent years, Photocatalytic technology which utilizes abundant solar energy for converting CO2 into valuable hydrocarbon fuels have gained significant research attention. To foster innovative talent development and alleviate environgmental issue, we designed the synthesis of CoAl-LDH/CdS materials and their application in photocatalytic CO2 reduction experiments. This initiative aims to enhance undergraduates' innovative thinking and practical skills while aligning experimental teaching with national development priorities. The CoAl-LDH/CdS composite material was synthesized through a hydrothermal method, demonstrating its efficacy as an environmentally friendly photocatalyst. Under visible light irradiation, the composite exhibited significantly enhanced photocatalytic CO2 reduction activity, achieving a maximum CO yield of 39.02 μmol·g-1. This study focuses on developing a teaching experiment suitable for widespread implementation in undergraduate laboratory curricula. 1) Optimized Synthesis for Teaching Efficiency: Considering the constraints of undergraduate experiments, such as limited time and operational simplicity, optimal reactant ratios were determined through fluorescence spectrum analysis of CoAl-LDH/CdS materials. This approach ensures the synthesis of high-performance products within restricted class hours while enhancing students' skills in nanomaterial preparation and modern analytical characterization techniques. 2) Enhanced Photocatalytic Mechanisms: The CoAl-LDH/CdS composite significantly improves CO2 photoreduction by enhancing light absorption and providing abundant active sites, thereby suppressing photogenerated electron-hole pair recombination. This application underscores chemistry's critical role in energy and environmental solutions, deepening students' understanding of photocatalytic technologies in addressing global challenges. 3) Cost-Effective and Sustainable Design: To accommodate large-scale undergraduate participation, material costs were reduced, and pollution was minimized at both source and process stages without compromising experimental efficacy. This approach aligns with green chemistry principles, ensuring educational effectiveness alongside environmental sustainability.

Key words: Photocatalysis, CO2 reduction, Comprehensive experiment