Promoted Photosynthesis in Seawater by Carbon Nitride and Related Systems

High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide The direct utilization of abundant solar energy and seawater positions artificial photosynthesis as a potential technology with unmatched sustainability. While the dissolved ions in seawater are generally regarded to drive corrosion and deactivation of catalysts, they actually were found to have a strong positive effect on carbon nitride photocatalysts for various light-driven reactions. The interaction between the catalysts and seawater ions, referred to as the “Ion Effect”, facilitates light harvesting, charge separation and transfer, and surface redox reactions of carbon nitride photocatalysts. This perspective examines a selection of case studies that showcase seawater-promoted photosynthesis using carbon nitride photocatalysts. It focuses on the mechanistic aspects of the Ion Effect and its prominent advantages for heterogeneous photocatalytic processes. The perspective aims to encourage further advancements in this emerging and practically relevant area.