Facile synthesis and characterization of anatase TiO2/g-CN composites for enhanced photoactivity under UV-visible spectrum

Abstract For the purpose of atmospheric NO removal, anatase TiO2/g-CN photocatalytic composites were prepared by using a facile template-free calcination route in atmospheric conditions. Considerably fiscal NP400 and laboratory-grade melamine were used as the precursor of the composites. Additionally, samples were prepared with different wt. ratios of TiO2 and melamine by using two distinct calcination temperatures (550 °C/600 °C). The morphological attributes of the composites were assessed with X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Additionally, the optical traits were evaluated and compared using UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and photoluminescence analysis. Finally, the photodegradation potentials for atmospheric NO by using the as-prepared composites were assessed under both UV and visible light irradiation. All the composites showed superior NO oxidation compared to NP400 and bulk g-CN. For the composites prepared by using the calcination temperature of 550 °C, the maximum NO removal was observed when the NP400 to melamine ratio was 1:2, irrespective of the utilized light irradiation type. Whereas for increased calcination temperature (600 °C), the maximum NO removal was observed at the precursor mix ratio of 1:3 (NP400:melamine). Successfully narrowed energy bandgaps were perceived in the as-prepared composites. Moreover, a subsequent drop in NO2 generation during NO oxidation was observed under both UV and visible light irradiation. Interestingly, higher calcination temperature during the synthesis of the catalysts has shown a significant drop in NO2 generation during the photodegradation of NO.