Abstract

Special shaped (deformable) hollow g-C₃N₄ nanospheres were synthesized by the solvothermal technique using silica spheres as template. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) peaks of the product were indexed to g-C₃N₄ materials. Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy confirmed that the external diameter of the hollow nanospheres is about 130–150 nm and thickness of the wall is about 20-30 nm. The FTIR spectrum showed absorption peak at 810 cm^-1 can be attributed to the s-triazine (C₃N₃) breathing mode. Raman spectrum exhibited two broad peaks approximately at 1360 cm^-1 (D band) and 1580 cm^-1 (G band). The deformed pie shape or mortars like hollow spheres were first reported. The flexility of the deformable hollow g-C₃N₄ nanospheres may be used in special field such as drug delivery carriers adjusting the delivery ratio by the external pressure, and a good material for studying the mechanical properties of the sp² hybrid g-C₃N₄. The photoluminescence spectrum of the product indicates that the deformable hollow g-C₃N₄ nanospheres may have potential applications in nano-optical device fields.

Graphical Abstract

The special shape hollow spheres and the corresponding TEM images.

Full-size image (29K)

Research highlights

► The special shape hollow g-C₃N₄ nanospheres synthesized by the solvothermal technique. ► The hollow nanospheres deform easily other than break under suffering from the external pressure. ► The product might have potential application in gas storage, drug delivery, catalysts and catalyst etc. ► The hollow g-C₃N₄ nanospheres may have potential applications as the optical materials.