0D/2D Ti3+-TiO2/P-doped g-C3N4 S-scheme heterojunctions for efficient photocatalytic H2 evolution

The integration of heterogeneous photocatalysts has emerged as a promising approach to boost the effectiveness of photocatalytic reactions for hydrogen evolution. In this study, we explore the synergistic effects of Ti 3+ -TiO 2 /P-doped g-C 3 N 4 heterojunctions on the enhancement of visible light-induced hydrogen generation efficiency. The photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance of the as-prepared TPCN100 (280.38 μmol g −1  h −1 ) surpasses that of pristine P-doped g-C 3 N 4 (34.89 μmol g −1  h −1 ) and Ti 3+ -TiO 2 (39.71 μmol g −1  h −1 ) by factors of 8.0 and 7.1 respectively. Through a comprehensive investigation of the structural, electronic, and photocatalytic properties, the underlying mechanisms accountable for the observed enhancement in efficiency within the heterojunction system were elucidated. Based on the in-situ X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS) examination, measurement of band edge, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis, the S-scheme photocatalytic mechanism was proposed. The integration of Ti 3+ -TiO 2 and P-doped g-C 3 N 4 offers new insights into the design of advanced photocatalytic materials for sustainable energy applications.