Exploration of Zr–Metal–Organic Framework as Efficient Photocatalyst for Hydrogen Production

The application of metal–organic framework (MOF) in the field of photocatalysis is limited, because of its unstable chemical properties and failure to respond in visible light. Herein, the Pd/MOF catalysts were prepared by impregnation reduction. It is important that we have reasonably constructed the dye-sensitized system of Pd/MOF and successfully extended the application of MOF to the visible range. It exhibited maximal photocatalytic activity (9.43 mmol/g) under visible-light irradiation (λ ≥ 420 nm) with eosin Y as a photo-sensitizer, which was enhanced twice the order of magnitude compared with the pure MOF (0.03 mmol/g). The activation process with an exchangeable guest solvent produced the Zr–MOF with the high surface area and the high stability, which provide a great electronic transmission capacity. The Pd nanoparticles provide an electronic outlet, and the dye broadens the spectral absorption range. The synergistic effect of the various components contributes to the high hydrogen production activity. This work provides a reference for the application of MOF in the field of photocatalysis.