Progress on the photocatalytic reduction of hexavalent Cr (VI) using engineered graphitic carbon nitride

Abstract The existence of chromium in hexavalent oxidation state is highly toxic to aquatic environment. Photocatalytic reduction of hexavalent Cr (VI) into Cr (III) has emerged as a desirable technology due to their prospect in solar energy utilization, high efficiency and low cost. Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4)-based photocatalysts are ideal for Cr (VI) reduction due to their inherent features including; visible-light responsive narrow bandgap, suitable conduction band potential, high physicochemical stability, unique optical and electronic properties. Herein, various surface-interface strategies to modify g-C3N4 including heterojunction formation, doping, structural regulation, co-catalyst loading and construction of nitrogen vacancies are elaborated for improving the Cr(VI) photoreduction efficiency. The review also highlights the effect of operational reaction conditions such solution pH, g-C3N4 dosage, Cr (VI) concentration, temperature, light source, organic acid additives and co-existing ions influencing Cr (VI) reduction efficiency. Finally, we attempt to propose the existing issues based on the current research and future aspects of engineered g-C3N4 for Cr (VI) photoreduction.