Immobilization of graphitic carbon nitride on wood surface via chemical crosslinking method for UV resistance and self-cleaning

To protect the wood surface from UV aging and give it new functions, in this research, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) was firmly immobilized on wood surface via chemical crosslinking method with glutaraldehyde as agent. By constructing the organic-inorganic composite coating between wood and g-C3N4, the wood surface was endowed with the functions of UV resistance and self-cleaning. According to the UV-Vis absorption spectra, the g-C3N4 coatings could absorb about 85% UVA and UVB lights. The UV resistance properties of the resulting g-C3N4-treated wood (GW) were evaluated through 15-day accelerated weathering tests. The surface total color change (Delta E*) of GW was estimated to be 8%, which was much less than that of original wood (24%). The photocatalytic tests showed that the wood surface could be self-cleaned by the photodegradation of organics on the surface. After 10-cycle photocatalytic activity tests, the remained content of g-C3N4 was stable at 84%, which was much higher than the 40% of control group (our reported hydrothermal method). In addition, the water contact angle of wood surface was improved from 55.1 degrees to 78.5 degrees. Overall, these findings look promising for enhancing the service life of wood materials and conservation of wooden artifacts. The obtained functional woods could be used for the development of durable, multi-functional, and environment-friendly wood products.

Automated summary

In this research, g-C3N4 was firmly immobilized on wood surface via chemical crosslinking method to enhance UV resistance and self-cleaning properties. The UV resistance properties and self-cleaning ability of the treated wood were evaluated through accelerated weathering and photocatalytic tests. The results showed promising potential for improving the service life of wood materials and conservation of wooden artifacts.