Selective graphene-like metal-free 2D nanomaterials and their composites for photocatalysis. (December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yu, Mengdie; Yuan, Xingzhong; Guo, Jiayin; Tang, Ning; Ye, Shujing; Liang, Jie; Jiang, Longbo
• Is Part Of: Chemosphere. Volume 284(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-12
• Subjects: Graphene -- Hexagonal boron nitride -- Graphitic carbon nitride -- Black phosphorus -- Covalent organic frameworks -- Photocatalysis; Pollution -- Periodicals; Pollution -- Physiological effect -- Periodicals; Environmental sciences -- Periodicals; Atmospheric chemistry -- Periodicals; 551.511
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131254
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0045-6535

Abstract

Abstract: From the viewpoint of sustainability, graphene-like metal-free 2D nanomaterials (GMFs) hold great potential in different photocatalytic fields due to their distinct structures and properties. Although their lattice structures are highly similar, the properties of these nanomaterials are in vast diversity owing to the uniqueness of particular atomic arrangement, thus giving rise to their multi-faceted functionalities in photocatalytic process. In this review, we summarize the latest progress of GMFs and their hybrid composites in photocatalytic field, including graphene and its derivatives, hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3 N4 ), black phosphorus (BP) and emerging 2D covalent organic frameworks (COFs). Their unique 2D structure and key photocatalytic properties are firstly briefly introduced. Then a critical discussion on their multiple roles in the activity enhancement of composite photocatalysts is emphasized, which in turn points out the direction of maximizing their functions and guides our efficient construction of hybrid photocatalysts based on above 2D nanomaterials. On this basis, a summary about the hybridization of above 2D metal-free materials is presented, and the merits of 2D/2D hybrid systems are elaborated. Last, we wrap up this review with some summative remarks, covering understanding their own unique strengths and weaknesses by comparison and proposing the major challenges and perspectives in this emerging field. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: GMFs differ in mechanical, thermal, electrical, optical and catalytic properties. The roles of GMFs in the enhancement of photocatalytic activity are multifarious. There exist obvious merits in the 2D/2D hybrid systems based on GMFs. Major challenges and perspectives of GMFs in photocatalytic field are presented.