Graphitic C3N4 Photocatalyst for Esterification of Benzaldehyde and Alcohol under Visible Light Radiation

The reaction of alcohols and carboxylic acids catalyzed by acids is the traditional method used to prepare esters in the chemical industry. In this study, we report the synthesis of active graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) that may be used in the one-step reaction between benzaldehyde and alcohol to promote the selective formation of esters under visible light irradiation. Compared with the reaction carried out without illumination, g-C3N4 showed obvious improvements in ester formation. The presence of tin dioxide can also contribute to the formation of esters under visible light irradiation. The use of g-C3N4 for the esterification of various alcohols was explored, and the catalyst showed promising results.