Open Access
Review
Photocatalytic Conversion of Biomass over Modified Graphitic Carbon Nitride Catalysts for Environmental Sustainability—A Review
Guangsheng Zhu1
, Yajie Shu1, *
, Ming Zhou2, *
Author Information
Submitted: 18 Nov 2024 | Revised: 29 Jan 2025 | Accepted: 15 Feb 2025 | Published: 20 Feb 2025
Abstract
Solar-driven photocatalytic transformations of biomass-derived organic wastes into high-value chemicals and fuels is a crucial and promising strategy for reducing pollution while simultaneously utilizing renewable sources and generating valuable products, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment. However, its efficient conversion remains challenging due to its complex macromolecular structure and the demand for environmentally sustainable processing methods. Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has emerged as a promising photocatalyst for biomass conversion owing to its unique electronic properties, intrinsic stability and structural tunability. This review comprehensively summarizes recent advancements in the modification of gC3N4-based photocatalysts for photocatalytic biomass conversion, focusing on strategies including elemental doping, defect engineering, and heterojunction construction. These modifications have enabled efficient conversion of various biomass feedstocks, from simple monosaccharides to complex cellulose structures, while facilitating simultaneous environmental pollution remediation. Furthermore, this review analyses the challenges in improving g-C3N4-based photocatalysts for biomass photo-reforming and improving the conversion of complex biomass substrates. Finally, by critically evaluating current strategies and highlighting future research directions, this review provides insights for designing advanced g-C3N4-based photocatalysts for biomass conversion and promotes environmental sustainability.
Graphical Abstract
Keywords
References
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Volume 1, Issue 1How to Cite
Zhu, G., Shu, Y., & Zhou, M. (2025). Photocatalytic Conversion of Biomass over Modified Graphitic Carbon Nitride Catalysts for Environmental Sustainability—A Review. Global Environment Science, 1(1), 19–35. https://doi.org/10.53941/ges.2025.100003
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