Green Synthesis of Phosphorus-Doped g-C3N4 as an Advanced Photocatalyst for H2 Evolution

The advancement of heteroatom-doped photocatalysts represents a promising approach to enhancing the efficiency of photocatalytic hydrogen production. Nonetheless, current doping methods often use toxic and complex processes, along with environmentally harmful materials. For example, traditional sodium dihydrogen phosphate dopants emit toxic fumes at high temperatures. Thus, there is an urgent need to investigate sustainable and direct doping techniques. This study presents the synthesis of phosphorus-doped graphite carbon nitride (P-g-C(3)N4)4) through a solvent pre-mixing assisted calcination process, utilizing nontoxic ammonium dihydrogen phosphate as the dopant, the optimal photocatalytic performance was observed at a phosphorus doping concentration of 5wt.%, resulting in a hydrogen production rate of 268 mu mu mol/g/h. Notably, the foaming effect resulting from the thermal decomposition of ammonium dihydrogen phosphate significantly enhances the specific surface area of P-g-C3N4, and exhibits superior light absorption capabilities and enhanced photocatalytic activity. The catalyst prepared in this research is both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable, positioning it as a promising candidate for applications in photocatalytic hydrogen production. It provides a new method for the development of clean energy and the solution of environmental pollution problems.