Recent advances in g-C3N4-based photocatalysts incorporated by MXenes and their derivatives

As one of the fascinating visible-light-responsive photocatalysts, the two-dimensional (2D) graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has drawn broad attention in the field of solar energy conversion and environmental remediation. However, intrinsic drawbacks, such as insufficient surface area, slow electron transfer and unsatisfied visible-light absorption hinder its promising applications. The incorporation of 2D MXenes and their derivatives into g-C3N4 is recognized as an effective approach to totally enhance their performance toward advanced photocatalysts. This work starts with a discussion of the fundamental photocatalytic mechanism over g-C3N4-based photocatalysts incorporated with MXenes and MXene derivatives. Then, we give a comprehensive overview on the main strategies for constructing such hybrid photocatalysts with a solid 2D/2D interfacial contact. Afterward, their typical applications in environmental and energy fields, including H-2 generation, CO2 conversion, pollutant degradation, N-2 fixation and H2O2 production, are discussed systematically. Finally, some concluding remarks and perspectives in this area are proposed.

Automated summary

This article explores the incorporation of 2D MXenes and their derivatives into g-C3N4 to enhance their performance as advanced photocatalysts. The discussion includes fundamental photocatalytic mechanisms, strategies for constructing hybrid photocatalysts with a solid 2D/2D interfacial contact, and typical applications in environmental and energy fields. Additionally, concluding remarks and future perspectives in this area are proposed.