Synthesis of graphitic carbon nitride through pyrolysis of melamine and its electrocatalysis for oxygen reduction reaction

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) was synthesized via direct pyrolysis of melamine and its electrocatalysis toward oxygen reduction reaction was studied. The morphology and structures of the products were characterized by scanning electron microscope and X-ray powder diffractometer. It was found that higher pyrolysis temperature resulted in more perfect crystalline structure of the graphitic carbon nitride product. Electrochemical characterizations show that the g-C3N4 has electrocatalytic activity toward ORR through a two-step and two-electron process.

Graphical abstractGraphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) synthesized via direct pyrolysis of melamine shows electrocatalytic activity toward ORR through a two-step and two-electron process.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide