Enhanced photocatalytic performance of SnS₂ under visible light irradiation: strategies and future perspectives

Tin(ii) sulfide (SnS₂) has emerged as a promising candidate for visible light photocatalytic materials. As a member of the transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) family, SnS₂ features a band gap of approximately 2.20 eV and a layered structure, rendering it suitable for visible light activation with a high specific surface area. However, the application of SnS₂ as a visible light photocatalyst still requires improvement, particularly in addressing the high recombination of electrons and holes, as well as the poor selectivity inherent in its perfect crystal structure. Therefore, ongoing research focuses on strategies to enhance the photocatalytic performance of SnS₂. In this comprehensive review, we analyze recent advances and promising strategies for improving the photocatalytic performance of SnS₂. Various successful approaches have been reported, including controlling the reactive facets of SnS₂, inducing defects in the crystal structure, manipulating morphologies, depositing noble metals, and forming heterostructures. We provide a detailed understanding of these phenomena and the preparation techniques involved, as well as future considerations for exploring new science in SnS₂ photocatalysis and optimizing performance.