Na2Ti2O4(OH)(2) nanotubes were obtained by hydrothermal reaction of TiO2 with concentrated NaOH solution. CdS nanoparticles were then decorated on Na2Ti2O4(OH)(2) nanotubes through partial ion-exchange method. The composite photocatalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible spectra (UV-vis), transmission electron microscope (TEM), etc. The results showed that CdS nanoparticles of 5-6 nm were anchored on the surface of the Na2Ti2O4(OH)(2) nanotubes. Under irradiation of visible light (lambda >= 430 nm). the prepared CdS/Na2Ti2O4(OH)(2) showed high photoactivity for hydrogen production. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved