Pt-decorated graphitic carbon nitride on carbon paper by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

Nanocomposites based on Pt nanoparticles (NPs) and graphitic carbon nitride (gCN) have emerged as promising (photo)electrocatalysts for sustainable energy production, thanks to the synergistical combination of Pt NPs catalytic performances with the favorable gCN chemicophysical properties. In this work, we have focused on electrophoretic deposition of graphitic carbon nitride on carbon paper and subsequent system functionalization with Pt NPs by means of radio frequency sputtering under mild conditions. A final thermal treatment was performed both in air and under inert atmospheres to assess its influence on Pt oxidation states and the related interplay with ultimate functional performances. The present study is focused on x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy characterization of two representative gCN-Pt nanocomposite specimens, annealed in Ar and in air. In particular, we report the survey spectra and the detailed scans for C 1s, N 1s, O 1s, and Pt 4f regions, analyzing the principal spectral features and comparatively discussing the resulting material properties.