Synthesis, mechanism and environmental applications of g-C3N4 composites: A synergistic approach to adsorption and photocatalysis

Nanomaterials based on graphitic carbon nitride have sparked significant interest in the scientific community owing to their unique characteristics, such as their straightforward synthesis, adaptable customization, robustness under harsh conditions, exceptional chemical durability, and prolonged usage without flux reduction. However, their photocatalytic efficiency remains a challenge. Photocatalysis and assimilated adsorption have emerged as a popular approach in recent years, playing a crucial role in surface photocatalytic reactions. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements in materials based on g-C3N4, focusing on their environmental applications, synthesis, photocatalysis, modification, mechanism, and adsorption. The emphasis is on the ecological approaches of the composites based on graphitic carbon nitride, especially that of assimilated adsorption and photocatalysis. The process of synthesizing pure g-C3N4 using various precursors, along with the techniques of exfoliation and controlling morphologies, is initially explained. Subsequently, multiple methods for altering the properties of g-C3N4 are outlined. The article also delves into the photocatalysis and adsorption processes. It concludes with a comprehensive summary of the various environmental applications of materials based on g-C3N4, including integrated adsorption and photocatalysis for CO2 reduction, O2 and H2 generation, water splitting, bacteria disinfection, the degradation of aqueous contaminants and gaseous pollutants. This analysis aims to inspire and excite our colleagues in the scientific community about the potential of g-C3N4-based composites in the coupling adsorption and photocatalysis technologies for ecological applications, underscoring the significance of its work in this field.