Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4)-based membranes for advanced separation

Abstract

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄), which is composed of replicate tri-s-triazine units, has received tremendous attention in the area of membrane-based technologies. Due to its unique chemical versatility, intrinsic porous characteristics, high stability and “earth-abundant” nature, g-C₃N₄ has been widely employed to construct various functional membranes to meet different separation demands. This review outlines the advanced strategies in synthesizing ultrathin g-C₃N₄-based membranes, such as filtration-assisted coating, blending, interfacial polymerization, dip coating, electrospinning and three-dimensional printing. Then, representative applications of g-C₃N₄ membranes in water treatment (desalination and contaminants removal), gas separation and pervaporation are highlighted. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives of g-C₃N₄-based membranes are also noted to inspire the development of high-performance separation membranes.