Binaphthyl Mediated Low Temperature Synthesis of Carbon Nitride Photocatalyst for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution

Abstract

Metal‐free graphitic carbon nitrides are on the rise as polymer photocatalysts under visible light illumination, taking shares in a range of promising photocatalytic reactions, including water splitting. Their simple synthesis and facile structural modification afford them exceptional tunability, enabling the creation of photocatalysts with distinct properties. While their metal‐free nature marks a significant step towards environmental sustainability, the high energy consumption required to produce carbon nitride photocatalysts remains a substantial barrier to their widespread adoption. Furthermore, the process of condensation at approximately 550°C typically results in solid yields of less than 15%, significantly challenging their economic viability. Here, we report on lowering manufacturing conditions of carbon nitride photocatalysts whilst enhancing photocatalytic activity by introducing binaphthyl diamine as a structural mediator. At 450°C in 2 hours, carbon nitride photocatalyst shows a lower bandgap and enables visible light induced hydrogen evolution (194 µmol h‐1) comparable to benchmark carbon nitride photocatalysts.