Graphitic carbon subnitride: Synthesis, structure, electron and proton transport, photoluminescence and thermoelectric properties

We have synthesised graphitic carbon subnitride by using pyrolysis of cheap ammonium thiocyanate. We've attempted to understand the structure and properties of CN-derivatives. It has been ascertained that graphitic carbon subnitride is the heptazine adduct with N-cross-linking between graphitic planes. It had gone antiferromagnetic structure with strong visible and UV photoluminescence and pronounced thermoelectric properties. Its measured specific inner electric conductivity is 10(-7)... 10(-6) S/cm within the temperature's range 20-400 degrees C. The specific injected proton conductivity is 10(-7)... 10(-6) S/cm and couldn't be separated from the electron component. Both types of its conductivity depend on the relative humidity, even at 300 ... 400 degrees C. A possible mechanism for this effect has been discussed. As a whole, the electromagnetic conductivity of carbon subnitride is defined by the electron component following spin wave formation. So, carbon subnitride derivatives show themselves as promising materials for spin waveguide applications including proton-exchanged specimens. Generation of an inner potential makes it possible to consider these compounds as showing prospects for power sources and thermoelectric devices. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.