Chemical synthesis and applications of graphitic carbon nitride

Abstract

Recently, polymeric semiconductor graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has been widely used in fields related to energy and material science, because of its unique electronic structure and excellent chemical inertness. For example, it can function as a metal-free catalyst or as a catalyst support for organic synthesis, photocatalytic water splitting, oxygen reduction reactions, and loading of Au, Pd, Ag, and Pt nanoparticles. In addition, it can also serve as a porous covalent organic framework for the absorption of H2 and CO2 gases, or as a hard template for the generation of metal (oxy)nitrides. In this review, some recent advances in g-C3N4 synthesis and applications are presented. The prospects for the development of g-C3N4 in energy-and environment-related fields are also discussed. © Editorial office of Acta Physico-Chimica Sinica.