Unveiling the photocatalytic potential of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4): a state-of-the-art review

Abstract

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄)-based materials have emerged as promising photocatalysts due to their unique band structure, excellent stability, and environmental friendliness. This review provides a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of the current state of research on g-C₃N₄-based photocatalysts. The review summarizes several strategies to improve the photocatalytic performance of pristine g-C₃N₄, e.g., by creating heterojunctions, doping with non-metallic and metallic materials, co-catalyst loading, tuning catalyst morphology, metal deposition, and nitrogen-defect engineering. The review also highlights the various characterization techniques employed to elucidate the structural and physicochemical features of g-C₃N₄-based catalysts, as well as their applications of in photocatalytic degradation and hydrogen production, emphasizing their remarkable performance in pollutants' removal and clean energy generation. Furthermore, this review article investigates the effect of operational parameters on the catalytic activity and efficiency of g-C₃N₄-based catalysts, shedding light on the key factors that influence their performance. The review also provides insights into the photocatalytic pathways and reaction mechanisms involving g-C₃N₄ based photocatalysts. The review also identifies the research gaps and challenges in the field and presents prospects for the development and utilization of g-C₃N₄-based photocatalysts. Overall, this comprehensive review provides valuable insights into the synthesis, characterization, applications, and prospects of g-C₃N₄-based photocatalysts, offering guidance for future research and technological advancements in this rapidly growing field.