A series of one-dimensional CdxZn(1-x)S semiconductor alloys were prepared via a hydrothermal method with the assistance of ethylenediamine at 180 degrees C for 12 h. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, nitrogen adsorption/desorption and Fourier transform infrared techniques. With the value of x increased, the band gap of CdxZn(1-x)S semiconductor alloys gradually decreased indicating that catalysts were exchanged to visible-light response. Photocatalytic reduction results showed that Cd0.73Zn0.27S exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity toward photo production of aniline via nitrobenzene reduction under visible irradiation respectively. The reaction mechanism was also discussed. (C) 2013 Published by Elsevier Ltd.