Synthesis of HER-capable cobalt metal organic framework using a straightforward reflux method and a thorough spectroscopic and theoretical analysis

Abstract

A Cobalt MOF was obtained under reflux using aqueous methanol. The Cobalt MOF was synthesized using Cobalt (II) perchlorate hexahydrate and 1,3,5-Benzenetricarboxylic Acid (BTC) in a methanol mixed with double distilled water as a solvent under reflux condition for 2–3 h at 60–65 °C. The reddish solution obtained was filtered and kept in the refrigerator for almost 24 h. A crystal suitable for SC-XRD was obtained and the XRD analysis confirmed the polymeric structure of the Co-BTC. All the other analysis such as FTIR, Thermal analysis and FESEM of Co-BTC was carried out. Further, the efficacy of it as a potential catalyst towards HER was explored. The theoretical study assisted, and the data suggests that low band gap of the MOF possibly favors its efficacy in the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER).