Recent advances on g–C3N4–based Z-scheme photocatalysts: Structural design and photocatalytic applications

Graphitic carbon nitride (g–C 3 N 4 )–based Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts have recently attracted numerous research attention for solar energy conversion and environmental remediation. Benefited from the features of highly effective separation and transfer rate of photocarriers, well visible light responsive ability and spatially separated redox reactive sites, g–C 3 N 4 –based Z-scheme heterostructure shows significantly enhanced photocatalytic performance. This review summarizes and highlights recent research progress in g–C 3 N 4 –based Z-scheme photocatalysts including construction of 2D-2D coupling interfaces, fabrication of hierarchical microstructures, introduction of defects and heteroatoms, design of dual Z-scheme, as well as exploration of the plasmonic and photothermal performances. Moreover, the recent photocatalytic applications advance of g-C 3 N 4 based Z-scheme photocatalysts in the fields of water splitting, CO 2 reduction and pollutant degradation were also summarized. Finally, the existing challenges and perspectives of g–C 3 N 4 –based Z-scheme photocatalyst are discussed and further bring about new opportunities for future research. • Highlighted rational design and construction g–C 3 N 4 –based Z-scheme photocatalysts. • Summarized the improvements of g–C 3 N 4 –based Z-scheme photocatalysts. • Detailedly introduce water splitting, CO 2 reduction and pollutant removal area. • Discussed some key opportunities and challenges for g-C 3 N 4 based Z-scheme photocatalysts.