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2024 Volume 40 Issue 12
2024, 40(12):
Abstract:
2024, 40(12): 240300
doi: 10.3866/PKU.WHXB202403005
Abstract:
Photocatalytic pollutant removal provides a competitive manner for wastewater purification. The exploration of efficient and durable photocatalysts is significant for this technique. Integrating carbon quantum dots and S-scheme junction into one system represents an effective strategy for achieving the outstanding photocatalytic efficacy. In comparison to S-scheme junction, photocatalysts combining carbon quantum dots and S-scheme junction harness the merits of both, thus holding greater potential. Herein, a multicomponent fibrous photocatalyst of carbon quantum dots/CdS/Ta3N5that incorporates S-scheme heterojunction and carbon quantum dots is developed for high-efficient destruction of levofloxacin antibiotic. The as-prepared carbon quantum dots/CdS/Ta3N5 heterojunction nanofibers manifest a significantly strengthened photocatalytic levofloxacin degradation activity, with the rate constant (0.0404 min-1) exceeding Ta3N5, CdS/Ta3N5, and CdS by 39.4, 2.1, and 7.2 folds. Such remarkable photocatalytic performance is credited to the unique 1D/0D/0D core-shell heterostructure with compact-bound hetero-interface, which favors the synergistic effect between carbon quantum dots modification and S-scheme junction. This work offers a new way for developing new Ta3N5-based heterojunctions for environmental remediation.
Photocatalytic pollutant removal provides a competitive manner for wastewater purification. The exploration of efficient and durable photocatalysts is significant for this technique. Integrating carbon quantum dots and S-scheme junction into one system represents an effective strategy for achieving the outstanding photocatalytic efficacy. In comparison to S-scheme junction, photocatalysts combining carbon quantum dots and S-scheme junction harness the merits of both, thus holding greater potential. Herein, a multicomponent fibrous photocatalyst of carbon quantum dots/CdS/Ta3N5that incorporates S-scheme heterojunction and carbon quantum dots is developed for high-efficient destruction of levofloxacin antibiotic. The as-prepared carbon quantum dots/CdS/Ta3N5 heterojunction nanofibers manifest a significantly strengthened photocatalytic levofloxacin degradation activity, with the rate constant (0.0404 min-1) exceeding Ta3N5, CdS/Ta3N5, and CdS by 39.4, 2.1, and 7.2 folds. Such remarkable photocatalytic performance is credited to the unique 1D/0D/0D core-shell heterostructure with compact-bound hetero-interface, which favors the synergistic effect between carbon quantum dots modification and S-scheme junction. This work offers a new way for developing new Ta3N5-based heterojunctions for environmental remediation.
2024, 40(12): 240500
doi: 10.3866/PKU.WHXB202405005
Abstract:
Photocatalytic water splitting (PWS) provides an optimal approach for the sustainable production of green hydrogen. NH2-modified covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs-NH2) hold potential in PWS due to robust light uptake, optimal charge separation, and considerable redox potential. However, the high surface reaction barriers hinder the efficiency of PWS owing to the conversion difficulty of intermediate products. Modulating the Lewis basicity of NH2 on CTFs offers a feasible route for addressing this challenge. In this work, electron-donating ethyl (C2H5) and electron-withdrawing 5-fluoroethyl groups (C2F5) are introduced at the para position of amine groups, producing C2H5-CTF-NH2 and C2F5-CTF-NH2, to adjust the Lewis basicity of CTF-NH2. Through DFT calculations, the optical properties, excited states, electronic structures, dipole moments, and surface reaction processes of the CTF-NH2, C2H5-CTF-NH2 and C2F5-CTF-NH2 are simulated. The results indicate that the electron-withdrawing C2F5 group can decrease the electron density and Lewis basicity on NH2, thereby lowering the energy barriers for hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions, effectively ameliorating the PWS efficiency of CTF-NH2. This work unveils an innovative approach for donor-acceptor-regulated CTFs for the application of PWS.
Photocatalytic water splitting (PWS) provides an optimal approach for the sustainable production of green hydrogen. NH2-modified covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs-NH2) hold potential in PWS due to robust light uptake, optimal charge separation, and considerable redox potential. However, the high surface reaction barriers hinder the efficiency of PWS owing to the conversion difficulty of intermediate products. Modulating the Lewis basicity of NH2 on CTFs offers a feasible route for addressing this challenge. In this work, electron-donating ethyl (C2H5) and electron-withdrawing 5-fluoroethyl groups (C2F5) are introduced at the para position of amine groups, producing C2H5-CTF-NH2 and C2F5-CTF-NH2, to adjust the Lewis basicity of CTF-NH2. Through DFT calculations, the optical properties, excited states, electronic structures, dipole moments, and surface reaction processes of the CTF-NH2, C2H5-CTF-NH2 and C2F5-CTF-NH2 are simulated. The results indicate that the electron-withdrawing C2F5 group can decrease the electron density and Lewis basicity on NH2, thereby lowering the energy barriers for hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions, effectively ameliorating the PWS efficiency of CTF-NH2. This work unveils an innovative approach for donor-acceptor-regulated CTFs for the application of PWS.
2024, 40(12): 240702
doi: 10.3866/PKU.WHXB202407020
Abstract:
The development of efficient photocatalysts for hydrogen production is crucial in sustainable energy research. In this study, we designed and prepared a Covalent Triazine Framework (CTF)-Cu2O@NC composite featuring an S-scheme heterojunction structure aimed at enhancing the photocatalytic hydrogen production. The light absorption capacity, electron-hole separation efficiency and H2-evolution activity of the composite were significantly enhanced due to the synergistic effects of the nitrogen-doped carbon (NC) layer and the S-scheme heterojunction. Structural and photoelectrochemical characterization of the system reveal that the S-scheme heterojunctions not only enhance the separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers but also maintain the strong redox capabilities to further promote the photocatalytic reactions. Moreover, the NC layer could simultaneously reduce the photocorrosion of Cu2O and promote the electron transfer. Experimental results demonstrate that the CTF-7% Cu2O@NC composite shows outstanding hydrogen-production performance under visible light, achieving 15645 μmol∙g-1∙h-1, significantly surpassing the photocatalytic activity of pure CTF (2673 μmol∙g-1∙h-1). This study introduces a novel approach to the development of efficient and innovative photocatalytic materials, strongly supporting the advancement of sustainable hydrogen energy.
The development of efficient photocatalysts for hydrogen production is crucial in sustainable energy research. In this study, we designed and prepared a Covalent Triazine Framework (CTF)-Cu2O@NC composite featuring an S-scheme heterojunction structure aimed at enhancing the photocatalytic hydrogen production. The light absorption capacity, electron-hole separation efficiency and H2-evolution activity of the composite were significantly enhanced due to the synergistic effects of the nitrogen-doped carbon (NC) layer and the S-scheme heterojunction. Structural and photoelectrochemical characterization of the system reveal that the S-scheme heterojunctions not only enhance the separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers but also maintain the strong redox capabilities to further promote the photocatalytic reactions. Moreover, the NC layer could simultaneously reduce the photocorrosion of Cu2O and promote the electron transfer. Experimental results demonstrate that the CTF-7% Cu2O@NC composite shows outstanding hydrogen-production performance under visible light, achieving 15645 μmol∙g-1∙h-1, significantly surpassing the photocatalytic activity of pure CTF (2673 μmol∙g-1∙h-1). This study introduces a novel approach to the development of efficient and innovative photocatalytic materials, strongly supporting the advancement of sustainable hydrogen energy.
2024, 40(12): 240702
doi: 10.3866/PKU.WHXB202407021
Abstract:
S-scheme heterojunctions can preserve strong redox capacity on the basis of achieving spatial separation of photogenerated carriers. Therefore, a deep comprehension of the photoinduced charge transfer dynamics in S-scheme heterostructures is vital to enhancing photocatalytic properties. Herein, SnO2/BiOBr S-scheme heterojunctions with tight contact are fabricated with in situ hydrothermal method. The optimal SnO2/BiOBr exhibits excellent photocatalytic performance for CO2 reduction, with yields of CO and CH4 of 345.7 and 6.7 μmol∙g-1∙h-1, which are 5.6 and 3.7 times higher than those of the original BiOBr. The photoinduced charge transfer mechanism and dynamics of SnO2/BiOBr S-scheme heterostructure are characterized by in situ X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS) and femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy (fs-TA). A new fitted lifetime of photogenerated carriers are observed, which could be attributed to interfacial electron transfer of S-scheme heterojunction, further illustrating an ultrafast transfer channel for photoelectrons from SnO2 conduction band to BiOBr valence band. As a result, the powerful reduced electrons in BiOBr conduction band and the powerful oxidation holes in SnO2 valence band are retained. This work provides profound comprehension of photoinduced charge transfer mechanism of S-scheme heterojunction.
S-scheme heterojunctions can preserve strong redox capacity on the basis of achieving spatial separation of photogenerated carriers. Therefore, a deep comprehension of the photoinduced charge transfer dynamics in S-scheme heterostructures is vital to enhancing photocatalytic properties. Herein, SnO2/BiOBr S-scheme heterojunctions with tight contact are fabricated with in situ hydrothermal method. The optimal SnO2/BiOBr exhibits excellent photocatalytic performance for CO2 reduction, with yields of CO and CH4 of 345.7 and 6.7 μmol∙g-1∙h-1, which are 5.6 and 3.7 times higher than those of the original BiOBr. The photoinduced charge transfer mechanism and dynamics of SnO2/BiOBr S-scheme heterostructure are characterized by in situ X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS) and femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy (fs-TA). A new fitted lifetime of photogenerated carriers are observed, which could be attributed to interfacial electron transfer of S-scheme heterojunction, further illustrating an ultrafast transfer channel for photoelectrons from SnO2 conduction band to BiOBr valence band. As a result, the powerful reduced electrons in BiOBr conduction band and the powerful oxidation holes in SnO2 valence band are retained. This work provides profound comprehension of photoinduced charge transfer mechanism of S-scheme heterojunction.
2024, 40(12): 240702
doi: 10.3866/PKU.WHXB202407023
Abstract:
Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are widely studied for energy storage applications, but achieving cathode materials with balanced high energy density, stability, and fast charge/discharge performance remains a key challenge. In this study, we successfully synthesized a series of NASICON-type Na3.5-xMn0.5V1.5-xZrx(PO4)3/C, incorporating Mn, V, and Zr to investigate their impact on electrochemical performance. By introducing Zr alongside Mn and V, we developed a novel strategy to activate V4+/V5+ redox reactions, achieving high energy density. Moreover, this substitution promotes Na-ion migration by widening the migration pathways and generating additional Na vacancies, which greatly enhances electrode reaction kinetics and boosts overall performance. Na3.4Mn0.5V1.4Zr0.1(PO4)3/C demonstrates superior stability, retaining 90% of its capacity after 800 cycles, and delivers high-rate performance (84 mAh∙g-1 at 20C), significantly outperforming pristine Na3.5Mn0.5V1.5(PO4)3/C. These advancements highlight a potential approach for developing efficient and sustainable SIBs.
Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are widely studied for energy storage applications, but achieving cathode materials with balanced high energy density, stability, and fast charge/discharge performance remains a key challenge. In this study, we successfully synthesized a series of NASICON-type Na3.5-xMn0.5V1.5-xZrx(PO4)3/C, incorporating Mn, V, and Zr to investigate their impact on electrochemical performance. By introducing Zr alongside Mn and V, we developed a novel strategy to activate V4+/V5+ redox reactions, achieving high energy density. Moreover, this substitution promotes Na-ion migration by widening the migration pathways and generating additional Na vacancies, which greatly enhances electrode reaction kinetics and boosts overall performance. Na3.4Mn0.5V1.4Zr0.1(PO4)3/C demonstrates superior stability, retaining 90% of its capacity after 800 cycles, and delivers high-rate performance (84 mAh∙g-1 at 20C), significantly outperforming pristine Na3.5Mn0.5V1.5(PO4)3/C. These advancements highlight a potential approach for developing efficient and sustainable SIBs.
2024, 40(12): 240800
doi: 10.3866/PKU.WHXB202408002
Abstract:
Reforming CO2 into storable solar fuels via semiconductor photocatalysis is considered an effective strategy to solve the greenhouse effect and resource shortage. Unfortunately, the problem of rapid photogenerated carriers severely limits the CO2 reduction capability of one-component catalysts. The fabrication of S-scheme heterojunctions with defects can result in efficient spatial separation of photo-generated charge carriers and increase adsorption and activation of nonpolar molecules. Herein, ZnWO4/g-C3N4 S-scheme heterojunctions with defects are constructed through in situ growth method. The experiments show that the generation rate of CO from CO2 reduction is up to 232.4 μmol∙g-1∙h-1 with a selectivity close to 100%, which is 11.6 and 8.5 times higher than those of pristine ZnWO4 and g-C3N4, respectively. In situ XPS and work function analyses demonstrate the S-scheme charge transport pathway, which facilitates the spatial segregation of photogenerated carriers and promotes CO2 reduction. In situ ESR illustrates that CO₂ molecules are adsorbed by nitrogen vacancies, which act as photoelectron acceptors during the photocatalytic reaction and are favorable for charge trapping and separation. The S-scheme charge transport mode and nitrogen vacancy work together to stimulate the efficient conversion of CO2 to CO. This work presents significant insights to the cooperative influence of the S-scheme charge transport mode and defects in regulating CO2 reduction activity.
Reforming CO2 into storable solar fuels via semiconductor photocatalysis is considered an effective strategy to solve the greenhouse effect and resource shortage. Unfortunately, the problem of rapid photogenerated carriers severely limits the CO2 reduction capability of one-component catalysts. The fabrication of S-scheme heterojunctions with defects can result in efficient spatial separation of photo-generated charge carriers and increase adsorption and activation of nonpolar molecules. Herein, ZnWO4/g-C3N4 S-scheme heterojunctions with defects are constructed through in situ growth method. The experiments show that the generation rate of CO from CO2 reduction is up to 232.4 μmol∙g-1∙h-1 with a selectivity close to 100%, which is 11.6 and 8.5 times higher than those of pristine ZnWO4 and g-C3N4, respectively. In situ XPS and work function analyses demonstrate the S-scheme charge transport pathway, which facilitates the spatial segregation of photogenerated carriers and promotes CO2 reduction. In situ ESR illustrates that CO₂ molecules are adsorbed by nitrogen vacancies, which act as photoelectron acceptors during the photocatalytic reaction and are favorable for charge trapping and separation. The S-scheme charge transport mode and nitrogen vacancy work together to stimulate the efficient conversion of CO2 to CO. This work presents significant insights to the cooperative influence of the S-scheme charge transport mode and defects in regulating CO2 reduction activity.
2024, 40(12): 240801
doi: 10.3866/PKU.WHXB202408012
Abstract:
Polymer-based photoanodes for the water oxidation reaction have recently garnered attention, with carbon nitride standing out due to its numerous advantages. This study focuses on synthesizing crystalline carbon nitride photoanodes, specifically poly(heptazine imide) (PHI), and explores the role of salts in their production. Using a binary molten salt system, optimal photocurrent density of 365 μA·cm-2 was achieved with a voltage bias of 1.23 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode under AM 1.5G illumination, this performance is ca. 18 times to the pristine PCN photoanode. In this process, NH₄SCN facilitates the growth of SnS2 seeding layers, while K2CO3 enhances film crystallinity. In situ electrochemical analyses show that this salt combination improves photoexcited charge transfer efficiency and minimizes resistance in the SnS2 layer. This study clarifies the role of salts in synthesizing the PHI photoanode and provides insights for designing high-crystallinity carbon nitride-based functional films.
Polymer-based photoanodes for the water oxidation reaction have recently garnered attention, with carbon nitride standing out due to its numerous advantages. This study focuses on synthesizing crystalline carbon nitride photoanodes, specifically poly(heptazine imide) (PHI), and explores the role of salts in their production. Using a binary molten salt system, optimal photocurrent density of 365 μA·cm-2 was achieved with a voltage bias of 1.23 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode under AM 1.5G illumination, this performance is ca. 18 times to the pristine PCN photoanode. In this process, NH₄SCN facilitates the growth of SnS2 seeding layers, while K2CO3 enhances film crystallinity. In situ electrochemical analyses show that this salt combination improves photoexcited charge transfer efficiency and minimizes resistance in the SnS2 layer. This study clarifies the role of salts in synthesizing the PHI photoanode and provides insights for designing high-crystallinity carbon nitride-based functional films.
2024, 40(12): 240501
doi: 10.3866/PKU.WHXB202405016
Abstract:
Semiconductor photocatalysis makes full use of solar energy, serving as a potent tactic to solve the worldwide energy deficit and safeguard the environment. Bismuth-based photocatalysts stand out among various photocatalysts as a significant area, due to their unique crystal structure, favorable mixed electron band structure, diverse composition, and huge potential for solar catalytic conversion. This document reviews the rational design of Bi-based photocatalysts for solar energy. Recent advancements in diverse Bi-based photocatalysts such as Layered Bi, Bismuth element, BiVO4, Bi2S2, and Bi2O3 are highlighted. Secondly, the synthesis strategies of Bi-based catalysts, including hydrothermal/solvothermal, chemical precipitation, and solid-state reaction, are summarized. Third, various structural regulation methods to improve the photocatalytic performance, including defect regulation, heteroatom doping, morphology, SPR effect utilization, and heterojunction construction, are systematically introduced. Additionally, a focus is given to the exclusive applications of Bi-based photocatalysts, including CO2 reduction, water decomposition, N2 fixation, NOx removal, H2O2 production, and selective organic synthesis, followed by an introduction of advanced in situ characterization techniques of the Bi-based photocatalysts. Ultimately, the forthcoming obstacles are underscored, and a future outlook for Bi-based photocatalysts is anticipated. This review aims to offer detailed instructions for comprehensively understanding and logically crafting effective bismuth-based photocatalysts, while also encouraging novel ideas and advances in energy and environmental fields, contributing to the goals of green chemistry and sustainable development.
Semiconductor photocatalysis makes full use of solar energy, serving as a potent tactic to solve the worldwide energy deficit and safeguard the environment. Bismuth-based photocatalysts stand out among various photocatalysts as a significant area, due to their unique crystal structure, favorable mixed electron band structure, diverse composition, and huge potential for solar catalytic conversion. This document reviews the rational design of Bi-based photocatalysts for solar energy. Recent advancements in diverse Bi-based photocatalysts such as Layered Bi, Bismuth element, BiVO4, Bi2S2, and Bi2O3 are highlighted. Secondly, the synthesis strategies of Bi-based catalysts, including hydrothermal/solvothermal, chemical precipitation, and solid-state reaction, are summarized. Third, various structural regulation methods to improve the photocatalytic performance, including defect regulation, heteroatom doping, morphology, SPR effect utilization, and heterojunction construction, are systematically introduced. Additionally, a focus is given to the exclusive applications of Bi-based photocatalysts, including CO2 reduction, water decomposition, N2 fixation, NOx removal, H2O2 production, and selective organic synthesis, followed by an introduction of advanced in situ characterization techniques of the Bi-based photocatalysts. Ultimately, the forthcoming obstacles are underscored, and a future outlook for Bi-based photocatalysts is anticipated. This review aims to offer detailed instructions for comprehensively understanding and logically crafting effective bismuth-based photocatalysts, while also encouraging novel ideas and advances in energy and environmental fields, contributing to the goals of green chemistry and sustainable development.
2024, 40(12): 240602
doi: 10.3866/PKU.WHXB202406029
Abstract:
Utilizing sunlight as a renewable energy source, photocatalysis offers a potential solution to global warming and energy shortages by converting CO2 into useful solar fuels, including CO, CH4, CH3OH, and C2H5OH. Among the various formulations investigated, copper-based photocatalysts stand out as particularly appealing for CO2 conversion due to their cost-effectiveness and higher abundance in comparison to catalysts based on precious metals. This literature review provides a thorough summary of the latest developments in copper-based photocatalysts used for CO2 reduction reactions, including metallic copper, copper oxide, and cuprous oxide photocatalysts. The review also provides a categorical summary of the CO2 reduction products and a detailed categorical discussion of the means of modulation and modification of each copper-based catalyst. Finally, this review highlights the existing challenges and proposes future research directions in the development of copper-based photocatalysts for CO2 reduction, focusing on boosting energy utilization and improving product formation rates.
Utilizing sunlight as a renewable energy source, photocatalysis offers a potential solution to global warming and energy shortages by converting CO2 into useful solar fuels, including CO, CH4, CH3OH, and C2H5OH. Among the various formulations investigated, copper-based photocatalysts stand out as particularly appealing for CO2 conversion due to their cost-effectiveness and higher abundance in comparison to catalysts based on precious metals. This literature review provides a thorough summary of the latest developments in copper-based photocatalysts used for CO2 reduction reactions, including metallic copper, copper oxide, and cuprous oxide photocatalysts. The review also provides a categorical summary of the CO2 reduction products and a detailed categorical discussion of the means of modulation and modification of each copper-based catalyst. Finally, this review highlights the existing challenges and proposes future research directions in the development of copper-based photocatalysts for CO2 reduction, focusing on boosting energy utilization and improving product formation rates.
2024, 40(12): 240700
doi: 10.3866/PKU.WHXB202407005
Abstract:
Electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction via the two-electron pathway (2e-ORR) is becoming a promising and sustainable approach to producing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) without significant carbon footprints. To achieve better performance, most of the recent progress and investigations have focused on developing novel carbon-based electrocatalysts. Nevertheless, the sophisticated preparations, decreased selectivity and undefined active sites of carbon-based catalysts have been generally acknowledged and criticized. To this end, transition metal oxides and chalcogenides have increasingly emerged for 2e-ORR, due to their catalytic stability and tunable microstructure. Here, the development of metal oxides and chalcogenides for O2-to-H2O2 conversion is prospectively reviewed. By summarizing previous theoretical and experimental efforts, their diversity and outstanding catalytic activity are firstly provided. Meanwhile, the topological and chemical factors influencing 2e-ORR selectivity of the metal oxides/chalcogenides are systematically elucidated, including morphology, phase structures, doping and defects engineering. Thus, emphasizing the influence on the binding of ORR intermediates, the active sites and the underlying mechanism is highlighted. Finally, future opportunities and challenges in designing metal oxides/chalcogenides-based catalysts for H2O2 electro-synthesis are outlined. The present review provides insights and fundamentals of metal oxides/chalcogenides as 2e-ORR catalysts, promoting their practical application in the energy-related industry.
Electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction via the two-electron pathway (2e-ORR) is becoming a promising and sustainable approach to producing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) without significant carbon footprints. To achieve better performance, most of the recent progress and investigations have focused on developing novel carbon-based electrocatalysts. Nevertheless, the sophisticated preparations, decreased selectivity and undefined active sites of carbon-based catalysts have been generally acknowledged and criticized. To this end, transition metal oxides and chalcogenides have increasingly emerged for 2e-ORR, due to their catalytic stability and tunable microstructure. Here, the development of metal oxides and chalcogenides for O2-to-H2O2 conversion is prospectively reviewed. By summarizing previous theoretical and experimental efforts, their diversity and outstanding catalytic activity are firstly provided. Meanwhile, the topological and chemical factors influencing 2e-ORR selectivity of the metal oxides/chalcogenides are systematically elucidated, including morphology, phase structures, doping and defects engineering. Thus, emphasizing the influence on the binding of ORR intermediates, the active sites and the underlying mechanism is highlighted. Finally, future opportunities and challenges in designing metal oxides/chalcogenides-based catalysts for H2O2 electro-synthesis are outlined. The present review provides insights and fundamentals of metal oxides/chalcogenides as 2e-ORR catalysts, promoting their practical application in the energy-related industry.
2024, 40(12): 240800
doi: 10.3866/PKU.WHXB202408005
Abstract:
The use of carbon-based fuels causes a significant increase in CO2 emissions, posing a serious threat to the environment. This review explores the potential application of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) in photocatalytic CO2 reduction as a strategy to mitigate global warming. The effectiveness of g-C3N4 (gCN) in this process is hindered by several factors, including rapid exciton recombination, limited solar light absorption, and a lack of active sites for conducting the reduction. To address these challenges, various amendment techniques have been executed, such as adjusting the morphology of g-C3N4, doping it with different atoms, and forming heterojunctions with other semiconductors. This review highlights the role of S-scheme heterojunctions in expanding the photocatalytic activity of g-C3N4 and emphasizes that, despite its potential as a photocatalyst for CO2 reduction, further research and innovation are essential to overcome its current limitations.
The use of carbon-based fuels causes a significant increase in CO2 emissions, posing a serious threat to the environment. This review explores the potential application of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) in photocatalytic CO2 reduction as a strategy to mitigate global warming. The effectiveness of g-C3N4 (gCN) in this process is hindered by several factors, including rapid exciton recombination, limited solar light absorption, and a lack of active sites for conducting the reduction. To address these challenges, various amendment techniques have been executed, such as adjusting the morphology of g-C3N4, doping it with different atoms, and forming heterojunctions with other semiconductors. This review highlights the role of S-scheme heterojunctions in expanding the photocatalytic activity of g-C3N4 and emphasizes that, despite its potential as a photocatalyst for CO2 reduction, further research and innovation are essential to overcome its current limitations.
