Chlorophyllin sensitized carbon nitride scaffolds for photocatalytic application

Polymeric carbon nitride (CN) scaffolds are broadly investigated in photocatalytic energy production and environmental purification applications. However, the visible light absorption capacity of CN catalysts is limited to ∼460 nm. Herein, we attempt to extend the visible light absorption capacity of CN by surface sensitization approach and elevate its photoactivity. Modification of CN via immobilization with a photosensitizer such as chlorophyllin (Chl), is likely to extend, and enhance the photocatalytic reaction dynamics. Henceforth, a series of Chl-CN hybrids (xC-CN) were prepared by the impregnation route, and thoroughly characterized to understand the physico-chemical properties. The effects of Chl-sensitization on the CN surface are extensively correlated to the observed photocatalytic dye degradation activity.