Advances and challenges of g-C3N4 photocatalysts in volatile organic compound removal from indoor air

Document Type

Review

Publication Date

2-1-2026

Abstract

Indoor air pollution from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) poses serious risks to human health and contributes to secondary organic aerosol (SOA) and PM₂.₅ formation. Conventional air purification methods are often ineffective against VOCs, whereas photocatalytic oxidation offers a cleaner and more sustainable solution. Among various photocatalysts, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) has attracted significant attention as a visible-light-active, metal-free material with tunable structure, high stability, and environmental safety. This review summarizes recent progress in modifying g-C₃N₄ through heterojunction formation, heteroatom doping, and structural engineering to enhance its charge separation, light absorption, and VOC degradation efficiency. Key challenges such as humidity effects, intermediate formation, and limited indoor light utilization are discussed, along with prospects for scalable, green air-purification technologies. Overall, g-C₃N₄-based photocatalysts represent a promising pathway toward sustainable VOC control and alignment with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals.

Publication Title

Materials Science and Engineering B

ISSN

09215107

DOI

10.1016/j.mseb.2025.119025

Volume

324

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