MOF-Derived Carbons Modified CdSe Quantum Dots for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production

Abstract

Metal-organic framework (MOF)-derived carbons have attracted great interest in recent years by virtue of their fascinating material properties, such as mesoporous structures, high electron conductivity and great chemical stability. By coupling the MOF-derived carbons with other functional materials, it is possible to tailor the resulting materials properties for expanding the application scenarios. Here, we have developed a low-temperature approach to the preparation of ZIF-67-derived carbon nanostructures (ZDCNT). Further coupling with CdSe quantum dots was conducted to enhance the photocatalytic performance toward solar hydrogen production. The electronic interactions between ZDCNT and CdSe were explored with time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy and in-situ X-ray absorption. A hydrogen production rate of 10.4 mmole g-1 hr-1 with a remarkable apparent quantum yield of 8.1 % at 300 nm can be achieved. Recycling tests further disclosed the high chemical stability for the ZDCNT modified CdSe, suggesting that the typical photocorrosion of CdSe can be resolved upon the modification with ZDCNT. This work delivers a new concept of photocatalyst paradigms by combining MOF-derived carbons with semiconductor.