Recent advances on g-C3N4-based Z-scheme photocatalysts: Structural design and photocatalytic applications

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4)-based Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts have recently attracted numerous research attention for solar energy conversion and environmental remediation. Benefited from the features of highly effective separation and transfer rate of photocarriers, well visible light responsive ability and spatially separated redox reactive sites, g-C3N4-based Z-scheme heterostructure shows significantly enhanced photocatalytic performance. This review summarizes and highlights recent research progress in g-C3N4-based Z-scheme photocatalysts including construction of 2D-2D coupling interfaces, fabrication of hierarchical microstructures, introduction of defects and heteroatoms, design of dual Z-scheme, as well as exploration of the plasmonic and photothermal performances. Moreover, the recent photocatalytic applications advance of gC3N4 based Z-scheme photocatalysts in the fields of water splitting, CO2 reduction and pollutant degradation were also summarized. Finally, the existing challenges and perspectives of g-C3N4-based Z-scheme photocatalyst are discussed and further bring about new opportunities for future research.(c) 2022 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4)-based Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts have attracted significant research attention for solar energy conversion and environmental remediation. The unique features of efficient photocarrier separation, visible light response, and spatially separated redox reactive sites contribute to the enhanced photocatalytic performance. This review summarizes recent progress in the construction of g-C3N4-based Z-scheme photocatalysts, including coupling interfaces, hierarchical microstructures, defects and heteroatoms, dual Z-scheme design, and plasmonic and photothermal performances. Photocatalytic applications in water splitting, CO2 reduction, and pollutant degradation are discussed, along with existing challenges and future research opportunities.