Photocatalysts with novel structure and superior hydrogen (H2) evolution activity are attractive to solve energy shortage and other environmental problems. As one of two-dimensional transition metal disulfides (2D TMDs), MoS2 cocatalyst with a unique lamellar flower-like porous structure was fabricated herein to boost the photocatalytic H2 evolution of CdS. The porous MoS2/CdS photocatalyst reached a H2 evolution activity of 54.1 mmol h−1 g−1, which is 36 times better than in case of pure CdS. Characterizations demonstrated that the promoted activity of the porous MoS2/CdS composite was strongly related to the distinctive cocatalyst structure. The coexistence of spherical porous and lamellar structures, as well as a heterojunction structure between MoS2 and CdS played crucial roles. A slow photo effect helped to enhance the visible-light utilization. The heterojunction structure of CdS particles with lamellar MoS2 accelerated the transfer of photo-induced electrons. This unique porous 2D TMD structure as a cocatalyst is expected to enhance activities for H2 evolution of other photocatalysts as well.
