Two-dimensional hierarchically porous C₃N₄ for photocatalysis: perspective and challenges

Abstract

Owing to its unique structure, porosity and photoresponse properties, two-dimensional hierarchically porous (2D-HP) C₃N₄ has attracted wide attention in environmental remediation and sustainable energy evolution fields. Up to today, 2D-HP C₃N₄ has been developed as an efficient photocatalyst for various environmental/energy photocatalytic applications. Its advantages in promoting light harvesting, reactant diffusion and transportation, surface molecule activation and photoinduced carrier separation have been verified. In this perspective, we highlighted the advantages of 2D-HP C₃N₄ in various photocatalytic reactions such as water splitting and H₂O₂ production. The relevant mechanism was simultaneously discussed. Moreover, the prospects and obstacles for the industrial utilization of 2D-HP C₃N₄-based photocatalysts are outlined and summarized. Finally, we envision available approaches for the deployment of 2D-HP C₃N₄-based materials to promote its practical application.

Keywords

Two-dimensional materials / hierarchically porous / C₃N₄ / photocatalysis

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