Enhanced solar light-induced performance of a step-scheme heterojunction nanostructure (C3N4/ZrO2) for mixed dye degradation and methanol oxidation

Abstract

This study focuses on the high demand for innovative nanostructured materials with boosted photocatalytic performance for the degradation of organic pollutants and oxidation of organic compounds. A nanostructure consisting of graphitic carbon nitride (C3N4) and zirconium oxide (ZrO2) denoted as C3N4/ZrO was synthesized via direct thermal pyrolysis. A comprehensive array of characterization techniques (XRD, FESEM, HRTEM and UV-DRs analysis) was utilized for a detailed analysis of the prepared photocatalysts. The photoactivity of the C3N4/ZrO nanostructure was explored by the photocatalytic degradation of a mixture of dyes (Rh B + CV), and methanol oxidation reaction and compared with those of pristine C3N4 and ZrO2. The photoactivity of C3N4/ZrO for degrading the mixed dye under simulated solar light was 97% higher than those of pristine C3N4 (88%) and ZrO2 (31%). The C3N4/ZrO nanostructure, functioning as a step-scheme heterojunction, demonstrated superior photocatalytic performance due to enhanced charge transport facilitated by robust interfacial contact between C3N4 and ZrO2. This enhanced photodegradation efficiency, reaching 97%, establishes a foundation for the development of heterojunction catalysts with exceptional photocatalytic activities. Furthermore, the methanol oxidation activity of the C3N4/ZrO nanostructure was exceptionally high, yielding a 138.25 mA/cm2 current density at a 2 M methanol. The proposed material has a high application potential for mitigating pollution and energy issues.