Interface reconstruction of MXene-TiC doped CeO nanorods for remarked photocatalytic ammonia synthesis.

Prospective photocatalytic ammonia synthesis process has received more attentions but quite challenging with the low visible light utilization and weak N molecule absorption ability around the photocatalysts. Herein, interface reconstruction of MXene-TiC/CeO composites with high-concentration active sites through the carbon-doped process are presented firstly, and obvious transition zones with the three-phase reaction interface are formed in the as-prepared catalysts. The optimal co-doped sample demonstrates an excellent photo response in the visible light region, the strongest chemisorption activity and the most active sites. Moreover, much more in-situ extra oxygen defects are also produced under light irradiation. It is expected that the double decorated catalyst shows a remarked ammonia production rate of above 0.76 mmol g·h under visible-light illumination and a higher apparent quantum efficiency of 1.08 % at 420 nm, which is one of the most completive properties for the photocatalytic N fixation at present.