Carbon Nitride and Its Hybrid Photocatalysts for CO2 Reduction C1 Product Selectivity

The transformation of abundant and cost-effective CO2 molecules into valuable chemical feedstocks or fuels represents an appealing yet challenging research objective. Artificial photosynthesis offers a promising pathway for CO2 reduction reactions (CO2RR) under mild and environmentally friendly conditions. Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has attracted significant attention for its potential to enhance the efficiency and selectivity of CO2RR through synthesis and modification strategies. This review explores recent advancements in g-C3N4 and its hybrid photocatalysts for selective CO2 conversions. We examine key factors influencing CO2RR product selectivity, including electron count and reaction dynamics, CO2 and reduction intermediates adsorption/desorption, and proton regulation affecting competitive hydrogen evolution. By summarizing various strategies to enhance CO2 photoreduction performance, this work provides a comprehensive analysis of CO2RR selectivity mechanisms for each approach. This review aims to inspire research endeavors towards developing efficient artificial systems for enhanced CO2RR efficiency and product selectivity.