Solar-light-sensitive Zr/Cu-(H2BDC-BPD) metal organic framework for photocatalytic dye degradation and hydrogen evolution

Abstract

Efficient solar-energy utilization is the future technology to address energy and environmental issues. In this study, we have prepared Zr/Cu based MOF for the mineralization of pollutants and hydrogen evolution from water. The photocatalytic synergism of the prepared Zr/Cu MOF has been investigated from light-controlled studies. Optimized Zr composition has enhanced photocatalytic degradation efficiencies. The present research aims to synthesize novel Zr/Cu-metal based metal organic frameworks (MOFs) by solvothermal (ST) methods and evaluate their photoluminescence (PL) property and photo catalytic activity. Herein, we demonstrate the preparation of tailor-made MOF with solar light sensitive and stable features. The optimized catalyst has shown 94.8% efficiency against the degradation of methylene blue and showed a hydrogen generation performance of 12.5 mmolg−1h−1. It was noticed that, concentration of Zr has profound influence on the photocatalysis. Systematic investigation proved that, catalyst has high surface area, metal-organic architecture for improved photocatalytic performance. Further, excellent chemical stability of catalyst after many cycles of reuse would make Zr/Cu-(H2BDC-BPD) a robust photo-active material.