Improvement of the hydrogen evolution reaction and photocatalyst activity of ZiF-8 coated with RGO

Abstract

The need for sustainable energy production is critical because of the considerable impact on the environment associated with the use of fossil fuels. In this study, we examine the physicochemical properties, photocatalytic performance, and electrochemical hydrogen evaluation of ZiF-8 coated with RGO, which were prepared using the ultrasonication method. All samples were examined with x-ray diffraction and exhibited a cubic phase. With an increase in RGO concentrations, the direct optical bandgap transition experienced a decline from 5.6 to 3.62 eV. As the concentration of RGO increased, a higher quantity of RGO was added resulting in the formation of a single layer of amorphous RGO on the surface. This layer of amorphous RGO played a key role in enhancing the electronic conductivity of the samples. The RGO coating effect on the photocatalytic performance since the efficiency of dye removal increased from 67% to 99% in 120 minutes. ZiF-8 combined with 8% RGO (ZiF-8@8%RGO) has a noticeably smaller arc radius compared to pure ZIF-8 and ZIF-8 with 4% RGO. The pure ZiF-8 is a typical n-type semiconductor. The ZiF-8@8%RGO demonstrated the highest rate of hydrogen evolution. These results suggest the feasibility of using ZiF-8@8%RGO for photoelectrochemical hydrogen generation.