Synthesis and photocatalytic properties of visible-light-responsive, three-dimensional, flower-like La–TiO2/g-C3N4 heterojunction composites

Abstract

We prepared a new three-dimensional, flower-like La–TiO₂/g-C₃N₄ (LaTiCN) heterojunction photocatalyst using a solvothermal method. Analysis and characterization were performed by conducting scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, and nitrogen adsorption and desorption. The prepared g-C₃N₄ nanosheets could reach 100 nm in size and covered the TiO₂ surface. A tightly bound interface formed between the g-C₃N₄ and TiO₂, speeding up the effective transfer of photo-induced electrons. In addition, the incorporation of La³⁺ reduced the electron–hole recombination efficiency. Consequently, the prepared La–TiO₂/g-C₃N₄ composite material exhibited better visible-light catalytic activity than pure TiO₂.