Perspective and status of polymeric graphitic carbon nitride based Z-scheme photocatalytic systems for sustainable photocatalytic water purification

Abstract

• Exploration of basic principle of Z-scheme photocatalysis. • Selection of Z-scheme photocatalysts for photocatalytic environment applications. • Discussion on g-C 3 N 4 based Z-scheme photocatalysts for pollutant degradation. • Applicability of Z-scheme photocatalysts for photocatalytic antibacterial activity. • View point on scope and limitations in g-C 3 N 4 based Z-scheme photocatalysis. Developing bioinspired artificial Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts with exceedingly well performance of visible-light harnessing along with optimum band edge potentials is a robustly prominent avenue to combat the environmental and energy crisis. The current scenario in fixation of water shortages all over the world is utilisation of green and economical processes to maintain sustainability. In this regard, hybridizing fascinating metal-free polymeric conjugated graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4 ) with other components to tailor an effectual visibly driven photocatalyst has triggered a superfluity in the field of photocatalysis. Considering the great adherence and eloquent progress in exploitation of g-C 3 N 4 goaded Z-scheme nanohybrids, we herein present an all-inclusive and updated study about photocatalytic wastewater treatment including pollutant degradation and bacterial inactivation. An in-depth overview comprising traditional photocatalysis along with Z-scheme photocatalytic systems have been exploited and discussed with respect to their facile synthesis techniques and application in environmental restoration. With revamp strategies, g-C 3 N 4 based Z-scheme photocatalytic systems provide broad range visible light absorption and efficient space separation of photo-generated charge carriers, resulting in efficacious photoactivity. The mechanistic insights inferring photocarriers migration and separation along with the generation of reactive radical species involved in the photodegradation process has also been highlighted and discussed. Finally, an all-embracing conclusive remark is presented regarding present studies and future perspectives for the development of g-C 3 N 4 goaded Z-scheme photocatalysis.