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Green Synthesis of a Metal‐Free 0D/2D Heterojunction: A Cost‐Effective Approach
Author(s) -
Xavier Marilyn Mary,
George Jis,
Divya K. S.,
Adarsh N. N.,
Nair P. Radhakrishnan,
Mathew Suresh
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
chemistryselect
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.437
H-Index - 34
ISSN - 2365-6549
DOI - 10.1002/slct.201903314
Subject(s) - heterojunction , photocatalysis , materials science , graphitic carbon nitride , quantum dot , carbon nitride , nitride , nanotechnology , composite number , charge carrier , non blocking i/o , optoelectronics , chemistry , catalysis , composite material , biochemistry , layer (electronics)
Photocatalyst derived from 0D/2D heterojunction composite is highly attractive for their great potential in environmental remediation and energy conversion. Herein we constructed a 0D/2D heterojunction built from carbon quantum dots (CD) and carbon nitride sheets (GCN) by microwave irradiation, which ensures the uniform dispersion of CDs. The electric field generated at the interface of this heterojunction favored the prevention of rapid recombination of photogenerated charge carriers. The successful heterojunction formation is due to the uniform dispersion of CDs, acting as electron sink over the sheets. A four‐fold enhancement in photocatalytic activity is obtained for this heterojunction, compared to pristine carbon nitride. With the support of the scavenger studies, the possible mechanism behind the photocatalytic activity is proposed. Interestingly, herewith we report an eco‐friendly method for the synthesis of CD/GCN composite material by using cheaply available and non‐hazardous precursors such as urea and glucose.