V2O5 Nanorod-Loaded g-C3N4 Sheets for Efficient Photocatalytic Removal of NO and Minimal NO2 Yield under Visible Light

Air pollution, stemming from nitrogen oxides, severely threatens human health and our environment. Although significant progress has been made with g-C3N4-based photocatalytic materials, an effective strategy to suppress the high generation of toxic NO2 and rapid recombination of photogenerated electrons and holes remains limited. Here, we show a V2O5 nanorod-loaded g-C3N4 sheet nanocomposite photocatalyst prepared through a straightforward and cost-effective mechanical mixing approach. Our proposed nanocomposite photocatalysts excel at eliminating NO under visible light exposure while generating a strikingly low level of NO2. This impressive performance is attributed to the widened band gap of g-C3N4 and the amplified optical properties achieved by pairing with photoactive V2O5. We also shed light on the underlying photocatalytic mechanism and pinpoint key influencing factors. With excellent availability and recyclability, this V2O5 nanorod-loaded g-C3N4 sheet nanocomposite photocatalyst offers substantial practical applicability, promising a brighter future in the fight against air pollution and creating a cleaner, healthier environment.