ZnAl-LDH and B-impregnated polymeric semiconductor (g-C3N4) for solar light-driven photocatalysis to treat phenolic effluent

The structural transformation of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has been done by means of Zinc Aluminium layered double hydroxide (ZnAl-LDH), and a non-metal, i.e. boron impregnation to enhance its visible light absorption. Optical and morphological study intimates that an altered band assembly formed due to the impregnation, resulting in a shorten bandgap in conjunction with the development of an irregular hexagonally interrelated morphology. In addition, the impregnated g-C3N4 (40% B-g-C3N4 and 30%ZnAl-LDH/g-C3N4) owns an expanded surface area of 14.3137, and 26.292 m(2)/g, which demonstrate 90.25, 86.31% degradation in phenol at 270 min illumination, with 700 mg/L of chemical oxidant concentration, and 5 L/h of flowrate, whereas under same conditions g-C3N4 impart 62.38% degradation. We hope this study will open a new dimensions for the sustainable use of solar energy for environmental applications. (C) 2021 Published by Elsevier B.V.

Automated summary

The structural transformation of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) using Zinc Aluminium layered double hydroxide (ZnAl-LDH) and boron impregnation has shown improved visible light absorption and enhanced efficiency in degrading phenol. This study may open new dimensions for the sustainable use of solar energy in environmental applications.