Ultrathin g-C3N4 nanosheet with hierarchical pores and desirable energy band for highly efficient H2O2 production

H2O2 production through photocatalysis has been considered as a sustainable technique. Here, we report ultrathin g-C3N4 nanosheets with hierarchical pores and desirable energy band for high-efficiency photocatalytic H2O2 production. The resultant catalyst showing an ultra-high H2O2 production rate of 1083 μmol g−1 h−1, which is about seven times higher than that of bulk g-C3N4 and represents one of the most active photocatalysts for H2O2 production. DFT calculation and experimental studies revealed that the suitable energy band structure achieved by a phosphorus doping in g-C3N4 leading to the efficient yielding two-electron reduction of O2 to form H2O2. Meanwhile, the particular morphology provided a large accessible surface area, multi-mass transport channels and short charge transfer distance. The synergy effect of desirable energy band and hierarchical porous nanosheets bring the excellent photocatalytic activity. In addition, the simple preparation procedure and the non-metal properties make it have great potential for the practical application.