Synergistic optimization texture and functional behavior of 3D skeleton carbon using amide-functionalized and N-doped strategies for enhancement photocatalytic water reduction

Carbon-based sensitization matrix in dye-sensitized photocatalytic hydrogen evolution (DS-PHE) system is crucial for riveting dye molecules and metal particles. The excellent conductivity and dispersibility of matrixes are necessary conditions for obtaining efficient catalytic activity . Herein, based on the collaborative regulation strategy, the amide-functionalized and N-doped three-dimensional skeleton carbon (AF-N-3DSC) is prepared using self-doping and functional group activation approaches. Due to the synergistic effect of heterogeneous atoms and functional groups, AF-N-3DSC as sensitized matrix not only possesses stable microstructure with acceptable specific surface area , but also shows superiority conductivity, dispersivity and adsorption properties. Under visible light irradiation , the constructed AF-N-3DSC@Pt nanohybrid photocatalysts via in-situ photodeposition method shows higher DS-PHE activity and stability. Typically, the hydrogen production rate of AF-N-3DSC@Pt reaches to 426.35 μmol/h with TEOA as sacrificial agent (pH = 7, volume ratio 10 %) and EY as dye sensitizer, which is 1.28 times and 2.43 times higher than N-3DSC@Pt photocatalyst and bare Pt photocatalyst. • N heteroatoms and N-containing groups synergistic improve functional properties of 3DSC. • AF-N-3DSC is prepared using self-doping and functional group activation methods. • AF-N-3DSC show high BET, conductivity, dispersibility and adsorption. • AF-N-3DSC@Pt have a high H 2 production rate and good stability under visible light.