Ultrarapid and highly efficient reduction of nitroaromatic compounds using cyclodextrin MOF

Abstract

Herein, a metal-organic framework (Cu-β-CD-MOF) was prepared that incorporates copper (Cu) and beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) via vapor diffusion. Cu-β-CD-MOF was employed as a catalyst for the reduction of various nitroaromatics (NACs) compounds viz. 4-Nitrophenol(4-NP), Nitrobenzene (NB), 2-Nitrophenol(2-NP) and 4-Nitroaniline(4-NA). Cu-β-CD-MOF was analyzed using diverse techniques, which disclosed a narrow band gap (2.23 eV), enhanced thermal stability, and rod-like crystal morphology. Cu-β-CD-MOF exhibited high catalytic activity, reducing all NACs in 4 min. As a result of its high photocatalytic efficiency, low cost, non-toxic, and adherence to green chemistry principles, Cu-β-CD-MOF could be considered for wastewater treatment applications.

Keywords

• Metal-organic frameworks
• β-Cyclodextrin
• Photocatalytic reduction
• Nitroaromatics compounds