Photocatalytic Oxygenation and Deoxygenation Transformations over BCN Nanosheets

Abstract

Modified BCN (m-BCN) nanosheets are synthesized by a KCl-assisted molten salt strategy with boric acid, glucose, and urea as precursors. The as-obtained m-BCN nanosheets show decreased thickness, enhanced crystallinity, and improved charge separation compared with those of bulk BCN. The photoelectrochemical tests, photoluminescence spectra, and electron paramagnetic resonance data indicate that the separation/transfer kinetics of photoinduced charge carriers are promoted. The m-BCN nanosheets exhibit improved efficiency in oxygenation of hydrocarbons (up to 99%) and thioether and deoxygenation of nitrobenzene and sulfoxides with visible light. The protocol brings forth broader applications of metal-free BCN ceramic semiconductors in organic transformations.