A metal-free and graphitic carbon nitride sonocatalyst with high sonocatalytic activity for degradation methylene blue

Graphitic C3N4 (g-C3N4) nanoparticles were prepared via a simple chemical synthesis route. The obtained g-C3N4 nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and ultraviolet–visible diffusive reflectance spectroscopy. The g-C3N4 nanoparticles showed a strong absorbance within visible light. The sonocatalytic performance of the g-C3N4 nanoparticles in degrading methylene blue (MB) was also investigated. Compared with commercial P25 nanoparticles, the g-C3N4 nanoparticles possessed a relatively better sonocatalytic activity.

► Graphitic C3N4 nanoparticles were prepared by a simple chemical route. ► The g-C3N4 nanoparticles possess relatively better sonocatalytic activity. ► MB degradation on g-C3N4 is better than that of commercial P25.