Emerging graphitic carbon nitride-based membranes for water purification

Membrane separation is a promising technology that can effectively remove various existing contaminants from water with low energy consumption and small carbon footprint. The critical issue of membrane technology development is to obtain a low-cost, stable, tunable and multifunctional material for membrane fabrication. Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has emerged as a promising membrane material, owing to the unique structure characteristics and outstanding catalytic activity. This review paper outlined the advanced material strategies used to regulate the molecule structure of g-C3N4 for membrane separation. The presentative progresses on the applications of g-C3N4-based membranes for water purification have been elaborated. Essentially, we highlighted the innovation integration of physical separation, catalysis and energy conversion during water purification, which was of great importance for the sustainability of water treatment techniques. Finally, the continuing challenges of g-C3N4-based membranes and the possible breakthrough directions in the future research was prospected.