BiOBr as template and Bi3+ source to support the growth of Bi-Zn bimetallic MOF and hybrid photocatalysts with highly visible-light photocatalytic performances

Abstract

Two affordable ligands of H₃BTC and 1,10-phen were used to synthesize novel metal organic frameworks (Bi-Zn MOF, named as HPBZ) and BiOBr/Bi-ZnMOF (named as HPBOBZ) composites as photocatalysts removing RhB by introducing Bi-Zn bimetals and changing the reaction conditions (ligand molar ratio, pH, reaction time, and temperature). Bi-Zn MOF exhibited well stability in the cyclic photocatalytic experiments. The synergy between Bi³⁺-Zn²⁺ improves the structural stability of the framework. The introduction of 1,10-phen not only increases the pore size but also realizes the modification of the bandgap, thereby enhancing the light response range and further improving the effect of photocatalytic activity. For BiOBr/Bi-Zn MOF hybrid photocatalysts, the BiOBr was Bi³⁺ source to grow Bi-Zn MOF in situ, and it enhanced highly visible-light photocatalytic performances with significant stability (The degradation efficiency still maintains 97.8% after three cycles) in the decomposition of RhB. The degradation efficiency reached 99% under visible light irradiation for 20 min. The integration of Bi-Zn hybrid metal–organic frameworks with BiOBr semiconductors provides a new perspective on developing heterojunction catalysts for environmental remediation.