Hybrid three-dimensional covalent organic framework trzn-COF (pore size 2.3 nm) are decorated with gold nanoparticles via a one pot aqueous method using HEPES as a reducing buffer, for in operando catalytic applications. Transmission electron microscopy studies reveal the deposition of Au NPs, with a size distribution in the 50 – 200 nm range, all over the trzn-COF. The catalytic activity of synthesized hybrids was evaluated using methyl orange and methylene blue degradation under ambient air conditions using in situ UV-Vis spectroscopy. Methyl orange degradation proceeds to completion k = 1.15 min-1 (first order) and degradation of methylene blue displayed similar kinetics. Further, as cobalt nanoparticles reportedly exhibit strong affinity towards azo dyes, a trzn-COF hybrid with cobalt (Co) nanoparticles was synthesized which exhibited k = 0.67 min-1. The fastest rate of degradation (k = 2.26 min-1) was observed with the bimetal-COF (both Au and Co) hybrid which is attributed to the synergy between the Au and Co nanoparticles. Our studies will help in developing better materials for efficient capture and degradation of a variety of organic pollutants under in operando conditions. Future studies are aimed to understand (a) mechanism of degradation by hybrid COFs and (b) synergy between Au and Co during catalysis.

Synthesis of hybrid covalent organic frameworks for catalytic applications

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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