Synergistically homogeneous-heterogeneous Fenton catalysis of trace copper ion and g-C3N4 for degradation of organic pollutants

Abstract

Using the bulk g-C3N4 as a precursor, four g-C3N4 nanosheets were further prepared by ultrasonic, thermal, acid, and alkali exfoliation. The structures of these materials were characterized by various techniques such as X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The synergistical Fenton catalysis of these materials with Cu2+ was evaluated by using rhodamine B as a simulated organic pollutant. The results showed that there existed a significant synergistical Fenton catalysis between Cu2+ and g-C3N4. This synergistic effect can be observed even when the concentration of Cu2+ was as low as 0.064 mg L−1. The properties of g-C3N4 strongly influenced the catalytic activity of the Cu2+/g-C3N4 system. The coexistent of Cu2+ and the alkali exfoliated g-C3N4 showed the most excellent catalytic activity. Hydroxyl radicals as oxidizing species were confirmed in the Cu2+/g-C3N4 system by electron paramagnetic resonance spectrum. The synergistic catalysis may be attributed to the easier reduction of Cu2+ adsorbed on the g-C3N4. This study provided an excellent Fenton catalytic system, and partly solved the rapid deactivation of heterogeneous Fenton catalysts caused by the leaching of metal ions. HIGHTLIGHTS There exists a significant synergistical Fenton catalysis between trace Cu2+ and g-C3N4. The Cu2+ concentration is lower than the maximum acceptable limit in drinking water. This study partly solved the rapid deactivation caused by the leaching of metal ions. This study reminds researchers to pay attention to the possible synergistic catalysis between leached ions and supports.

Unlocking the potential of thermally exfoliated ultrathin g-C3N4 nanosheets: abundant active sites for enhanced solar photocatalysis

“…The core tri-striazine-based framework remained unaltered, but functional groups like -NH 2 and C-OH are located at the surface of the resultant CN-600. 19,30,[58][59][60]…”