ZIF-67 derived Co@NC/g-C3N4 as a photocatalyst for enhanced water splitting H2 evolution

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4), as the one of the most promising photocatalysts, usually relies on noble metal co-catalysts in the photocatalytic water splitting H2 evolution process, which greatly increases the use cost. Here, a zeolite imidazole framework (ZIF-67) derived [email protected]/g-C3N4 composite was constructed through facile thermal condensation of ZIF-67 and melamine. The obtained [email protected]/g-C3N4 composites can drive water splitting H2 evolution without any noble metal co-catalyst under simulated sunlight. The optimal sample exhibits the highest H2 evolution rate of 161 μmol g−1·h−1, which is 6 times of pure g-C3N4. The N doped carbon in carbonized ZIF-67 can not only quickly capture separated electrons from g-C3N4, but also serve as the co-catalyst. The well dispersed cobalt intermediate on carbonized ZIF-67 also play a role in promoting electron conversion. The formation of junction between carbonized ZIF-67 and g-C3N4 could promote quick charge carrier separation and transfer. This work provides a new idea for photocatalytic H2 evolution without noble metal co-catalysis.