Functionalized graphitic carbon nitride based catalysts in solar-to-chemical conversion for hydrogen peroxide production

Abstract

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a crucial chemical compound for numerous applications in industrial processes, medical disinfection, and water treatment. Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is a promising alternative for photocatalytic H2O2 production, thanks to its high redox ability, long term-stability, and adjustable electronic properties. However, the photocatalytic H2O2 production in g-C3N4-based systems is typically limited by sluggish kinetics, rapid charge carrier recombination, and low H2O2 production selectivity. To address these issues, functionalized g-C3N4 materials with a large surface area, fast charge carrier separation, and improved O2 adsorption and activation are expected to enhance reaction kinetics and enhance H2O2 production selectivity. In this review, we introduce the fundamental principles of photocatalytic H2O2 production and summarize the recent progress in g-C3N4-based materials for photocatalytic H2O2 production. We also briefly discuss applications of photocatalytic H2O2 production and provide insights into the existing challenges and meaningful perspectives of g-C3N4 to advance the growing field of H2O2 production.