Newly Designed Cutting-Edge GCN@Cd Nanocomposite Catalyst Drives Ultra-Selective Organic Transformations under Solar Light 

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ABSTRACT

Transforming nitroarene into value-added chemicals at atmospheric pressure and ambient temperature using environmentally friendly and sustainable energy sources is indeed a challenging but highly desirable task for scientists. We present here the synthesis and development of a visible light active nanocomposite photocatalyst (GCN@Cd) based on graphitic carbon nitride, which was accomplished via thermal polymerization. With GCN@Cd as the photocatalyst, the newly developed nanocomposite photocatalytic system operates with great efficiency, producing a high yield of organic transformation (~95.15%). As a result, we created a GCN@Cd nanocomposite material with superior light-triggeration capabilities for -N=N-bond formation. The current scientific endeavour focuses on the expansion and uses of GCN-based nanocomposite photocatalysts in a variety of domains, including environmental remediation and organic synthesis. 

Significance of the study:

The newly developed GCN@Cd nanocomposite photocatalyst showcases exceptional catalytic activity and selectivity for transforming nitroarene to azo compounds under solar light, operating efficiently at ambient temperature. Its eco-friendly, cost-effective synthesis method, combined with excellent product yield and functional group tolerance, positions this catalyst as a superior alternative to traditional methods, offering substantial advancements in green chemistry and sustainable energy applications.

Summary of the study:

This study presents the synthesis and development of a novel visible light active nanocomposite photocatalyst, GCN@Cd, based on graphitic carbon nitride. The GCN@Cd nanocomposite effectively drives ultra-selective organic transformations, specifically reducing nitroarene to azo compounds under solar light. Characterization confirms its superior performance, achieving a high yield of ~95.15% at ambient conditions, demonstrating its potential for environmental remediation and organic synthesis.