Constructing 0D/1D/2D Z-scheme heterojunctions of Ag nanodots/SiC nanofibers/g-C3N4 nanosheets for efficient photocatalytic water splitting

Efficiently constructing nanostructured Z-scheme heterojunctions with good interface contact is a desired route to optimize the photocatalytic property of the materials. In this work, novel 0D/1D/2D Z-scheme silver/silicon carbide/graphitic carbon nitride (Ag/SiC/CN) photocatalysts were prepared from Ag nanodots loaded on SiC nanofibers/CN nanosheets (SiC/CN) composite, using the calcination and chemical reduction routes. The Ag/SiC/CN composite with an optimal 3% Ag loading dose performs the best H2 evolution rate of 2971 μmol g−1 h−1, which is approximately 8.8, 1.5 and 4.5 times compared to CN, SiC/CN and 3% Ag/CN, respectively. Besides the Ag/SiC/CN composite presents a high apparent quantum efficiency (7.3%) and outstanding photo-corrosion resistance stability. The Ag nanodots are served as efficient carriers transfer center and cocatalyst to construct Z-scheme heterojunction interface, which can help to generate more photo-generated carries, shorten the electron transmission distance and increase the electron transfer rate, certifying that 0D/1D/2D Z-scheme photocatalytic system is high-efficiency and has great advantages in photocatalytic applications.