Efficient Visible Light Driven Ammonia Synthesis on Sandwich Structured C3N4/MoS2/Mn3O4 catalyst

Abstract C3N4/MoS2/Mn3O4 composite with mixed dimension was synthesized, and its properties of broadening optical window and large contact area could improve the light harvesting, charge transport and interfacial charge separation properties in photochemical reactions, which promise the ability to capture and activate N2, providing an alternative pathway to overcome the limitations at room temperature for N2 reduction. The composite with suitable absorption edge and increased exposed surface sites are favourable for furnishing sufficient visible light-induced electrons to realize excellent and stable photoreduction of atmospheric N2 into NH3. The decoration of Mn3O4 on C3N4/MoS2 can not only consume part of hole for OER, but also inhabits the HER property of the composite and utilizes more electrons for N2 reduction. The NH3 generation rate is as high as 185 μmol h−1 g−1. The results presented herein provide new insights into rational design and engineering for the creation of highly active catalysts with visible light sensitive activity toward efficient, stable, and sustainable visible light N2 fixation in mild conditions.