Constructed of Cd-based organic framework heterostructure material for solar-powered organic dye purification

A novel water-stable Cd-based organic framework material (Cd-MOF) has been synthesized based on the 4,4′-([2,2′-bipyridine]-6,6′-diylbis(oxy))phthalic acid (H4L) ligand and Cadmium nitrate tetrahydrate (Cd(NO3)2·4H2O) with a solvothermal method. We also prove that the rational design and preparation of Cd-MOF\Ag heterojunctions by depositing Ag nanoparticles on the surface of Cd-MOF is an effective photocatalyst for the degradation of organic dyes in water. The photodegradation rates of RhB and MO were significantly improved under simulated sunlight conditions (AM1.5G), which reaching 0.68 and 1.549 min−1 g−1, respectively. The prominent performance is attributed to the efficient separation of photo-generated electrons and holes caused by the composite heterojunction of Cd-MOF/Ag. The surface plasmonic resonance (SPR) effect of Ag nanoparticles and the Schottky junction between Ag and Cd-MOF play crucial role in the photocatalytic degradation process. This work provides a new strategy for preparing photocatalysts and promoting the development of the degradation of organic dye pollutants in effluent with MOF-based material as photocatalysts.