A critical review on visible light active graphitic carbon nitride (g-CN) based photocatalyst for environment remediation application: A sustainable approach

Abstract

In the era of advancing technology and rising urbanization, the photocatalysis has emerged as an important strategy in addressing the pressing environmental challenges of pollution and escalating energy crisis. With in the realm of environmental sustainability, contemporary studies are focused on an array of environmental remediation strategies, encompassing effective pollutants degradation and generation of green energy using photocatalytic procedure. To accomplish the outlined objectives, there is a pressing need for low cost photocatalyst that exhibit efficiency, efficacy and environmental compatibility. Nonmetal doped graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) i.e., g-CN, shows enormous potential in the development of novel photocatalysts due to its metal-free nature, high stability, apposite electronic structure, suitable band gap energy (2.7 eV), excellent catalytic activity, and ecofriendly nature.This comprehensive review article explores the novel fabrication and exfoliation methods for the synthesis of g-CN photocatalyst and its potential applications in environmental remediation. With a focus on enhancing pollutant mineralization, the review delves into the advantages, practical challenges, and modifications associated with the fabrication of g-CN through the introduction of non-metal dopants such as carbon (C), nitrogen (N), oxygen (O), sulfur (S), and phosphorous (P). The discussion encompasses the material's unique properties, including its structural and morphological alterations, electronic structure, and band gap engineering. Furthermore, the review highlights the significant role of g-CN in promoting efficient photocatalysis while minimizing waste production, making it a potential candidate for the application in environment remediation.