Synthesis, Al3+/Mg2+ Intercalation and Structure Study of Graphite-like Carbon Nitride

Graphite-like carbon nitride (g-C3N4) was synthesized in large quantities at 300 degrees C under nitrogen by a solid-state reaction route. Furthermore, Al3+ and Mg2+ intercalation of g-C3N4 was performed by an electrochemical method. The starting C3N4 materials and intercalation compounds were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectra, thermogravimetry, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The possible structure model of intercalation compounds was proposed. The cation-pi interactions and electrostatic interactions were used to explain the changes of microstructure and chemical bonds before and after intercalation.