Pd@CdS@ZnO core-shell nanorods (NRs) have been prepared by using novel an easy chemical synthesis process. The superior catalytic activity of Pd@CdS@ZnO nanorods is attributable to the effective separation of electrons-hole pairs. The excitation-wavelength-dependent catalytic performance of Pd@CdS@ZnO NRs showed significant enhancement at the wavelengths analogous to the CdS layer. The recyclability results revealed a strong ability for the degradation of toxic organic pollutants with favorable reusable photocatalytic efficiency. Electrochemical impedance and photocurrent detection analysis further confirmed a reduced in the charge transfer resistance of Pd@CdS@ZnO NRs owing to embedded Pd NPs and coating of a CdS layer on ZnO NRs. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.