One-step exfoliation and fluorination of g-C3N4 nanosheets with enhanced photocatalytic activities

Abstract

Exfoliation and functionalisation of two-dimensional (2D) nanosheets are highly desired for the improvement of their chemical and physical properties. Herein, we propose a novel and efficient method for the preparation of fluorinated graphite carbon nitride (F-C₃N₄) nanosheets with enhanced photocatalytic activities. A one-step route was used to exfoliate and fluorinate the graphite carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) nanosheets by using g-C₃N₄ powder combined with ammonium fluoride (NH₄F). Through related instrumental characterisation, we confirmed that few-layered F-C₃N₄ nanosheets were produced successfully. Meanwhile, the enhanced hydrogen evolution rate of F-C₃N₄ nanosheets (477.6 µmol h⁻¹ g⁻¹) also confirmed the feasibility of this exfoliation method. This report not only opens up new possibilities for the rational design of metal-free F-C₃N₄ nanosheets with stable photochemical applications but also provides a potential method for producing functionalised 2D materials.