Engineering graphitic carbon nitride with expanded interlayer distance for boosting photocatalytic hydrogen evolution

Regulating interlayer distance is a crucial factor in the development of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials. A 2D metal-free photocatalyst, such as graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4), exhibits morphology- and microstructure-dependent photocatalytic activity. Herein, we report straightforward facile route for preparation unique lamellar g-C3N4, by co-firing melamine ammonium chloride via microwave-assisted heating. Through decomposition NH4Cl, evaporation NH3 gas can effectively overcome van der Waals forces, expanding thereby creating structure consisting nanosheets. Compared with bulk NH3-derived g-C3N4 larger specific surface area enhanced optical absorption capability, which increase hydrogen production because highly active structure, excellent utilization efficiency photon energy, low recombination photogenerated charge carriers. This study provides simple strategy regulation microstructure toward efficient applications.