Synthesis, Characterization and Applications of Nano-Porous Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and Quantum Dots Ternary Nanocomposite

In recent years, the development of novel nanocomposites has gained significant attention for their applications in photocatalysis, solar energy conversion, and removal of dangerous pollutants from the environment. Seemingly, TiO₂-CdS quantum dot-HKUST-۱ ternary nanocomposites is a promising class of hybrid materials that combines the high photocatalytic activity of TiO₂, the visible light absorption of CdS quantum dots, and the high surface area and porosity of the metal-organic frameworks like HKUST-۱ (also known as Cu-BTC). This ternary nanocomposite enhances charge separation and extends light absorption into the visible region, while improving the limitations of pure TiO₂, such as rapid electron-hole recombination and poor solar light utilization. CdS quantum dots serve as effective sensitizers, making visible light absorption more efficient, while HKUST-۱ acts as a porous scaffold that improves the dispersion of TiO₂ and CdS and facilitates molecular transport. Also, the presence of copper centers in HKUST-۱ can contribute to additional redox activity and improve photocatalytic activity. The synthesis of this nanocomposite can be done by a one-pot method of adding reactants to a pot and sonication for ۳۰ minutes. Then the above-mentioned solution is added to an autoclave and heated at ۱۲۰ degrees Celsius for ۲۴ hours. The blue powder was obtained by centrifugation and was washed by a ۱:۱ water-ethanol solution to clarify. The wet powder was dried in a vacuum oven at ۱۲۰ degrees Celsius for ۱۵ hours and then analyzed by characterization techniques such as XRD and FTIR spectroscopy to confirm the structural stability and improvement of optical properties of the nanocomposite. The synthesized nanocomposite may be used in removal of dye (methylene blue) and antibiotics from wastewater and improvement in photocatalytic activity of each component. Overall, the TiO₂-CdS quantum dot-HKUST-۱ ternary nanocomposite acts as a versatile and efficient platform for photocatalytic applications, showing promising qualities for future innovations in sustainable energy and environmental technologies.

کلیدواژه ها:

Nanocomposite ، Metal-organic frameworks ، Quantum dots