Graphitic carbon nitride and polymers: a mutual combination for advanced properties. Issue 3 (29th November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cao, Qian; Kumru, Baris; Antonietti, Markus; Schmidt, Bernhard V. K. J.
• Is Part Of: Materials horizons. Volume 7:Issue 3(2020)
• Page Start: 762
• Page End: 786
• Publication Date: 2019-11-29
• Subjects: Materials -- Research -- Periodicals; 543.0284
• DOI: 10.1039/c9mh01497g
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2051-6347

Abstract

Abstract : The present review highlights the combination of graphitic carbon nitride and polymers for materials with outstanding properties. Abstract : The sheet-like material graphitic carbon-nitride (g-C3 N4 ) is one of the most promising metal-free photocatalysts and utilized for various purposes, e.g. energy conversion, waste water remediation or organic synthesis. g-C3 N4 features a suitable band gap in the visible light range and outstanding physicochemical stability. However, g-C3 N4 features drawbacks such as structural disorder, low conductivity, poor dispersibility and in turn low processability. Amongst the strategies to improve g-C3 N4 properties, combination with polymers is a promising avenue toward advanced materials. The present critical review highlights the development and investigation of g-C3 N4 /polymer combination, including (1) g-C3 N4 as photoinitiator for polymer snythesis, (2) polymer modified g-C3 N4 for improved dispersibility, (3) g-C3 N4 /polymer hybrid materials fabricated via physical or covalent attachment and (4) g-C3 N4 based hydrogels. The fabrication methods and application of these areas will be critically reviewed and the advantage of g-C3 N4 /polymer combination comprehensively presented. Moreover, the broad range of applications is highlighted, e.g. photocatalysis, batteries, biosensors, H2 evolution and films. Finally, the review will conclude with a summary and perspective on future directions as well as current challenges of this research area in order to stimulate new research regarding the design and construction of g-C3 N4 /polymer materials.