Boosting the photocatalytic performance of swiftly produced carbon nitride: Impact of cyano group and oxygen doping within the matrix

• Published in: International journal of hydrogen energy Vol. 83; pp. 276 - 289
• Main Authors: Nath R, Ragesh, Ke, Shyue-chu
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 19.09.2024
• Subjects: Carbon nitride; Charge-transfer; Fast synthesis; H2 production; Photocatalysis; H2 production; Charge-transfer; Fast synthesis; Photocatalysis; Carbon nitride
• ISSN: 0360-3199
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2024.08.116

We present a significant advancement in the synthesis of carbon nitride framework (CN) using a rapid electric bunsen burner (EBB) method, achieving notable outcomes within a mere 10-min timeframe. The resulting material, designated as U10, exhibits amplified porosity and a semi-scrolling structure with a thickness measuring at 2.1 nm. In comparison to conventionally synthesized urea-derived carbon nitride (UCN) through a box furnace, the U10 demonstrates significantly heightened photocatalytic activity in both hydrogen (H2) production and the removal of organic dye (methylene blue) from aqueous solutions. To ensure the robustness and reliability of this synthetic approach, two additional precursors were subjected to testing, and their rates of H2 production were analyzed. The exceptional photocatalytic performance of the U10 material arises from its distinctive structural attributes and the synergistic influences of oxygen doping (O-doping) and the cyano (-CΞN) functional group, which are introduced during the rapid synthesis strategy. This innovative and streamlined strategy for synthesizing CN not only conserves energy and time but also significantly reduces production costs, rendering it a feasible method for the large-scale production of carbon nitride material. [Display omitted] •Developed a fast synthesis of defect-rich CN using a controlled EBB method.•Identified defect-rich CN with -CΞN groups and O, enhancing charge dynamics.•Improved charge transfer and electron-hole lifespan shown by light-dependent EPR.•Calculated thermodynamically stable structure using first-principle calculations.•Tracked intermediate products in fast CN synthesis initiated by urea.