2D/2D heterojunction of Ti3C2/porous few-layer g-C3N4 nanosheets for high-efficiency extraction of uranium (VI)

Abstract

Photocatalytic reduction towards hexavalent uranium has been considered as one of the most promising strategies for uranium extraction from seawater because of its good selectivity, high efficiency and environment friendliness. Of metal-free photocatalysts, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is an attractive candidate. However, its practical application has been limited due to the low photogenerated electron-hole pair separation efficiency and poor electronic conductivity. In this respect, porous few-layer C3N4 (PFC) was prepared by a simple bottom-up method, and its combination with Ti3C2 via electrostatic assembly constructed a 2D/2D heterojunction structure, marked as TFC. The TFC composite exhibit remarkable uranium extraction performance, which is 4.9 times higher than bulk C3N4. Moreover, the sample bears good selectivity and stability. The simple preparation process and excellent uranium extraction capability make TFC-3 composite has a promising application prospect for uranium extraction from seawater.