Metal organic framework derived Ca4Fe9O17 as photocatalyst for degradation of organic dyes

Abstract

Herein, we demonstrate, the synthesis and photocatalytic properties of a metal organic framework derived calcium iron bimetallic oxide for degradation of organic dyes in water. Characterisation of the material revealed the formation of a mesoporous and crystalline Ca4Fe9O17 phase that had never been explored as a photocatalyst. The material exhibited an optical band-gap of ~ 1.9 eV, a value ideally suited for visible light-driven catalysis. When tested as a photocatalyst for degradation of methylene blue, an organic cationic dye and a common contaminant of water, it showed impressive (>50%) dye degradation within two hours of illumination under low power lights.