MgAlTi-LDH/gCN heterocomposites analyzed by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and graphitic carbon nitride (gCN) are burgeoning multifunctional materials that have attracted a considerable interest as heterogeneous catalysts for environmental remediation. In the present work, we report on the x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy characterization of a representative MgAlTi-LDH/gCN heterocomposite, obtained by a simple mixing of single powdered constituents. Monochromated Al K-alpha radiation (1486.6 eV) was used as the source of x-ray excitation to acquire both wide-scan spectra and high-resolution signals of the principal element core levels. The main spectral features of the target system are critically examined and discussed in relation to the data related to the pristine MgAlTi-LDH. The obtained results highlight the occurrence of an electronic interplay between the single material constituents, anticipating an enhanced separation of photogenerated charge carriers and an improved activity for photocatalytic applications. The present reported data will serve as comparison for LDH-based materials obtained under various processing conditions for different end-uses.