Solvent-Assisted Synthesis of Supramolecular-Assembled Graphitic Carbon Nitride for Visible Light Induced Hydrogen Evolution - A Review

Many graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4)-based photocatalysts have attracted a significant interest because of the unique arrangement of carbon and nitrogen atoms. Changeable morphologies with tunable bandgap of g-C3N4 materials were used in many applications including batteries, photovoltaics, photocatalysts, sensors, etc. This review focuses on the recent progress in the solvent assisted supramolecular-assembled carbon nitride preparation for visible light induced hydrogen evolution from water. The synthesis involves tailoring the supramolecular assembly from different monomers followed by calcination. Different types of non-covalent interactions between the monomers have been explained. In addition, the crucial role of solvent has been re-counted in terms of the alteration of the structural morphology of assemblies. The mechanistic pathways of interaction in the formation of supramolecular assemblies have been also documented by molecular dynamics simulation. Finally, visible light triggered hydrogen evolution has been demonstrated along with discussion on challenges and future research direction.

Automated summary

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4)-based photocatalysts, known for their unique carbon and nitrogen atom arrangement, have diverse applications such as batteries and photovoltaics. Recent research has focused on solvent-assisted supramolecular-assembled carbon nitride synthesis for visible light induced hydrogen evolution. The study discusses non-covalent interactions, the crucial role of solvents, and mechanistic pathways of supramolecular assembly.