Graphitic carbon nitride based photoanodes prepared by spray coating method. (20th September 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sima, Marian; Vasile, Eugeniu; Sima, Adrian; Preda, Nicoleta; Logofatu, Constantin
• Is Part Of: International journal of hydrogen energy. Volume 44:Number 45(2019)
• Page Start: 24430
• Page End: 24440
• Publication Date: 2019-09-20
• Subjects: Exfoliated g-C3N4 -- Spray coating method -- Photoanode -- Water splitting; Hydrogen as fuel -- Periodicals; Hydrogène (Combustible) -- Périodiques; Hydrogen as fuel; Periodicals; 665.81
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2019.07.243
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-3199

Abstract

Abstract: Controlled deposition of g-C3 N4 films, used as photoelectrodes in PEC water splitting is still considered a challenge. In this paper, nanosheets of g-C3 N4 were deposited on FTO and FTO/TiO2 substrates via spray coating method. This method allows the preparation of g-C3 N4 films with a better exposure of nanosheet edges to the solution and light, favoring the photocatalytic process. The morphology, chemical composition and optical properties of these films were investigated, their behavior as photoanodes in photoelectrochemical water splitting being also evaluated. The results evidenced the formation of g-C3 N4 films with an enhanced visible light absorption and improved photocatalytic activity. The interaction of these films with TiO2 substrate consists in the insertion of nitrogen species in the TiO2 lattice. A significant increase in bulk donor densities value correlated with a longer lifetime of photogenerated electrons was observed for TiO2 /g-C3 N4 photoanode. Highlights: g-C3 N4 and TiO2 /g-C3 N4 photoanodes were prepared via spray coating method. The method allows more controlled deposition of g-C3 N4 nanosheet thin films. Films show enhanced visible light absorption and improved photocatalytic activity.