Effect of processing temperature on structure and photocatalytic properties of g-C3N4

• DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2015.08.097
• Publication Date: 2015-08-14T04:47:37Z
• Authors: I. Papailias; T. Giannakopoulou; N. Todorova; D. Demotikali; T. Vaimakis; C. Trapalis
• Keywords: Graphitic carbon nitride; Visible spectrum; Carbon nitride; Carbon fibers

Abstract Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) photocatalysts were synthesized by thermal polycondensation of melamine at different temperatures (450 °C, 550 °C and 650 °C). The crystalline structure, morphology, porosity, composition and light absorption of the materials were thoroughly investigated. Furthermore, their photocatalytic activity was evaluated by NO oxidation under UV and visible light irradiation. The results showed that the structural and optical properties highly depend on the process temperature and thus the degree of polycondensation. The best photocatalytic activity was exhibited by the sample prepared at 450 °C and the possible reasons were discussed.