The effect of ZnS layer was investigated in CdS QD-sensitized ZnO NRs.
ZnS interfacial layer effectively passivates the surface trap states of ZnO NRs.
ZnS layer suppresses recombination of injected electrons with holes on CdS QDs.
The efficiency of 1.53% is increased by 300% compared with CdS/ZnO photoanode.