Recent advancements in g-C3N4-based photocatalysts for photocatalytic CO2 reduction: a mini review

Abstract

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a very important micro-molecular resource. Using CO₂ captured from the atmosphere for high-output synthesis of chemicals as raw materials has great significance and potential for various industrial applications. Since the industrial revolution in the 18^th century, manmade CO₂ emission has increased by 45%, which negatively impacts the planetary climate by the so-called greenhouse effect. Therefore, high-efficiency photocatalysis and photocatalysts for CO₂ conversion have become the most important challenges and milestones throughout the world. In consideration of this, various catalysts have been explored. Among these, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) as a semiconductor is emerging as a highly promising photocatalyst for removing CO₂ from the atmosphere. Moreover, due to its excellent chemical stability and unique band structure, g-C₃N₄ has exhibited significant application potential for photocatalysis. This review summarizes the advancements that have been made in the synthesis and photocatalytic applications of g-C₃N₄-based catalysts for CO₂ reduction in recent years and explains the future challenges and prospects in this vital area of research.