Improved photocatalytic activity of g-C3N4/TiO2 composites prepared by a simple impregnation method

g-C3N4 and TiO2 hybrid structures are synthesized by means of a simple impregnation method having good photoactivities for the degradation of phenol under UV irradiation. From the wide structural and surface characterization we have stated that the presence of g-C3N4 notably affect the surface feature of TiO2 (surface area and pore size distribution). Enhanced photoactivities have been obtained for composites systems. The best result was obtained for 2 wt% loading of g-C3N4 leading to a 70% of improvement with respect to bare TiO2 in the reaction rate. The effective charge carrier separation was proposed as the responsible of such improved photoactivity.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► By a simple impregnation method we achieve the g-C3N4–TiO2 photoactive composite. ► Preparation parameters do not affect the structural and textural properties of TiO2. ► Photoactivity of TiO2 is strongly affected by the presence g-C3N4. ► The intimate junction of g-C3N4 with TiO2 leads to enhanced charge separation.