CdS/TiO2 nano-bulk composite (NBC) photocatalyst of a new configuration consisting of bulky CdS with high crystallinity decorated with nanosized TiO2 particles exhibited an unprecedented high rate of hydrogen production under visible light irradiation (lambda >= 420 nm) from water containing sulfide and sulfite ions as hole scavengers. The fabrication method of the composite photocatalysts was critical for their performance. It was demonstrated that this active composite photocatalyst could be applied for practical processes of simultaneous hydrogen production and H2S removal in the treatment of Claus plant tail gas streams or vents of hydrodesulfurization plants. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.