Efficient CO₂ Photoreduction into Solar Fuels over MoO_3−x/COF S-Scheme Photocatalyst

Abstract

The restricted electron transport and slow surface reaction kinetics are two fundamental limitations affecting the photocatalytic efficiency of covalent organic frameworks (COFs). To address these challenges and enhance charge separation, this study utilizes an in-situ growth strategy to incorporate MoO_3−x into COF (denoted as BTTA), forming MoO_3−x/COF composites (MOCOF). These composites demonstrate significantly enhanced solar fuel performance through photocatalytic CO₂ reduction. In-situ irradiated X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electron spin resonance analyses confirm the presence of an S-scheme carrier transfer mechanism, which effectively spatially separates photogenerated carriers with substantial redox potential. The nanoarchitecture of MOCOF-2 demonstrates the capability to efficiently convert CO₂ into valuable CO and CH₄ fuels, achieving reduction rates of 8.7 and 4.6 µmol·g⁻¹·h⁻¹, respectively. This study provides a valuable reference for the rational design of COF-based S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts aimed at solar fuel production.

Keywords

Covalent organic framework / S-Scheme heterojunction / Photocatalysis / Solar fuel / Interfacial engineering

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RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

Jilin University, The Editorial Department of Chemical Research in Chinese Universities and Springer-Verlag GmbH