Engineering ZnO/g-C₃N₄ Heterostructures for Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance under Solar Irradiation

The preprint operates within the established paradigm of photocatalysis for environmental remediation. This paradigm accepts that semiconductor materials can be used to degrade organic pollutants using solar energy. The research aims to improve the efficiency of this process by optimizing existing materials and methods.

This research focuses on enhancing the photocatalytic performance of ZnO by creating a heterostructure with g-C3N4. This falls under 'normal science' as it operates within the accepted paradigm, seeking to refine existing techniques and materials rather than propose a fundamental shift. The work explores different ratios of precursors to optimize the composite's structure and properties, aiming to solve a puzzle within the existing framework (how to improve photocatalytic efficiency). There is no evidence of challenging the underlying assumptions of the field or proposing a new paradigm. The development and testing of the ZnO/g-C3N4 nanocomposite are consistent with normal science activities of puzzle-solving and incremental improvement within the established paradigm of photocatalysis.