Single step transformation of urea into metal-free g-C3N4 nanoflakes for visible light photocatalytic applications

- g-C3N4 nanoflakes were synthesized from environmentally benign molecular precursor urea.
- g-C3N4 nanoflakes were characterized by XRD, FTIR, UV-vis absorption, Photoluminescence, FESEM and TEM analyses.
- Visible light photocatalytic activity of g-C3N4 was studied against Methylene blue dye.

g-C3N4 nanoflakes were prepared via a single step pyrolysis route from urea. X-ray diffraction analysis confirms the graphitic phase of the synthesized carbon nitride material. FT-IR analysis confirms the layered structure of sp2 hybridized carbon and nitrogen bonding features. Photoluminescence spectrum of g-C3N4 sample demonstrates the existence of various emission centers located at 431, 452, 488 and 576 nm, which evidences the availability of different path ways for electronic transition. FESEM and TEM analysis reveal that the synthesized g-C3N4 has nanoflakes morphology. Photocatalytic activity of the g-C3N4 nanoflakes under visible light was tested against Methylene blue dye.

120