Optimization of process parameters for photoreforming of hydrogen evolution via response surface methodology (RSM): A study using Carbon@exfoliated g–C3N4

Abstract Solar–driven photoreforming of organic compounds provides sustainable pathway to produce clean hydrogen. In present work, Carbon@exfoliated g–C3N4 was fabricated through a facile hydrothermal approach. Detailed characterizations were performed to examine the crystal structure, specific surface area, elementary composition, morphology, optical properties and also photoreforming activities. As a result, the deposition of carbon onto the exfoliated g–C3N4 structure shows enhanced surface area of 43.9 m2/g relative to bulk g–C3N4 (34 m2/g). Additionally, UV–Vis DRS evidenced the sensitivity of light absorption at the visible region. Central composite design (CCD) was applied to optimize the hydrogen yield through the response surface methodology (RSM). The adequacy of the fitted quadratic model was validated by values such as R–squared, F–value and p–value of 0.9922, 136.45 and