Nanoscale cobalt metal–organic framework as a catalyst for visible light-driven and electrocatalytic water oxidation

Abstract

The Co-ZIF-67 metal–organic framework was investigated as a catalyst for visible light-driven and electrocatalytic water oxidation in basic and neutral media. Co-ZIF-67 exhibited efficient performance for visible light-driven water oxidation, with a turnover frequency of 0.035 s⁻¹. Co-ZIF-67 also maintained a stable current density after electrolysis for over 24 h, and it electrocatalyzed the oxygen evolution reaction within a wide pH range. DFT calculations suggest that the catalyst activates water molecules while the dissociated proton is received by nearby 2-methylimidazole ligands. This process permits Co-ZIF-67 to effectively catalyze the photocatalytic and electrocatalytic oxidation of water.