Novel siligraphene/g-C3N4 composites with enhanced visible light photocatalytic degradations of dyes and drugs

In this research, a novel graphene-like SiC (siligraphene) was synthesized using a natural precursor and used to improve the photocatalytic activity of g-C3N4. The synthesized siligraphene has shown an excellent photocatalytic property due to its low band-gap and graphene-like structure which increases the electron transfer and reduces the electron-hole recombination rate and can improve the photocatalytic activity. Also, the positive charged Si atoms in siligraphene structure can adsorb oxygen to produce radicals that can promote the oxidation reaction. However, commercial β-SiC has exhibited very poor photocatalytic properties. As we know, g-C3N4 is a potential material for photocatalytic applications. Here, the novel siligraphene/g-C3N4 composites were successfully synthesized to enhance the photocatalytic properties of g-C3N4 in the degradation of model dyes (Congo red, Methyl red, and Methyl orange) and model drugs (Acetaminophen and Tetracycline) under visible light irradiation. Results show that siligraphene/g-C3N4 composite exhibits much better photocatalytic properties than pure g-C3N4. This enhanced photocatalytic properties can be justified by the enlarged surface area, suitable band gap, excellent electron properties, appropriate surface charge, and efficient migration of electron in siligraphene/g-C3N4 composite.