The band structure and photocatalytic mechanism for a CeO2-modified C3N4 photocatalyst

Abstract

A series of CeO₂-modified C₃N₄ (C₃N₄/CeO₂X%) heterostructure photocatalysts was synthesized via a hydrothermal method. Their band structure was studied via theoretical calculation and experimental characterization. The behavior of charge carriers was investigated via absorption spectra, PL, and time-resolved PL decay curves. It was found that the modification of CeO₂ on C₃N₄ matched the energy band, enhanced absorption in the visible region, separated photogenerated electrons and holes. Owing to the modification of CeO₂ on C₃N₄, the photocatalytic performance was significantly improved as compared to that of C₃N₄. This study may offer a new strategy to fabricate and design a band structure of a new photocatalyst with high photocatalytic performance.