The growth of 2D crystalline g-C3N4 films and the control of optoelectronic properties

Abstract

g-C3N4 is a novel semiconductor photocatalyst material; however, the low specific surface area and rapid carrier compliance hinder its photocatalytic performance. On the other hand, the synthesis of 2D g-C3N4 with high crystallinity remains challenging. Here, we report the growth of 2D crystalline g-C3N4 films with thicknesses up to 100 nm on the indium tin oxide substrates by chemical vapor deposition. The films show high quality, as shown by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, and exhibit intense fluorescence at room temperature. The optimal growth conditions, such as temperature and carrier gas flow rate, were achieved by analyzing their effects on the electronic structure through X-ray absorption spectra and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. By adding thiourea to the melamine precursors, we introduced N vacancies to achieve band gap modulation and promote carrier separation. This work provides guidelines for the further improvement of g-C3N4 performance and for extending its application in the field of photocatalytic devices.