Recent progress and prospect of graphitic carbon nitride-based photocatalytic materials for inactivation of Microcystis aeruginosa

Abstract

The proliferation of harmful algal blooms is a global concern due to the risk they pose to the environment and human health. Algal toxins which are hazardous compounds produced by dangerous algae, can potentially kill humans. Researchers have been drawn to photocatalysis because of its clean and energy-saving properties. Graphite carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) photocatalysts have been extensively studied for their ability to eliminate algae. These photocatalysts have attracted notice because of their cost-effectiveness, appropriate electronic structure, and exceptional chemical stability. This paper reviews the progress of photocatalytic inactivation of harmful algae by g-C₃N₄-based materials in recent years. A brief overview is given of a number of the modification techniques on g-C₃N₄-based photocatalytic materials, as well as the process of inactivating algal cells and destroying their toxins. Additionally, it provides a theoretical framework for future research on the eradication of algae using g-C₃N₄-based photocatalytic materials.

Keywords: Graphitic carbon nitride; Harmful algae blooms; Inactivation mechanism; Photocatalysis.