Harmonising light and structure: exploring ZnO/MOF composite photocatalysts for environmental remediations

Solar energy stands as a pivotal sustainable energy resource, necessitating materials with optimal characteristics for effective utilisation in solar energy-driven catalytic reactions for environmental cleanup. Metal - organic frameworks (MOFs) emerge as outstanding platforms for fabricating diverse nanocomposites involving metal oxides that offer a synergy of attributes, including high crystallinity, enhanced catalytic activity and stability, tunable textural properties, inherent morphologies, and tailored dimensions. Notably, the ability to tailor the energy band positions and regulate the surface functionalities renders these nanocomposites highly promising as photocatalysts. Emphasising the synergistic effects observed upon the coupling of these materials, the amalgamation of ZnO and MOFs presents an enticing avenue for enhancing photocatalytic performance since the distinctive properties inherent in each component mutually complement and reinforce the overall effectiveness of the photocatalytic system. Herein, this article provides an overview of the recent advancements in ZnO/MOF composites, highlighting their structural and morphological properties. Further, this study delves into the subtle interplay between ZnO and MOFs and elucidates the mechanisms underlying the enhanced catalytic activity and photocatalytic performance of the composites, shedding light on their potential for addressing contemporary environmental challenges. Finally, the current limitations and future perspectives in this burgeoning field are outlined, emphasising the opportunities for further research and development of metal oxide supported on MOF composites.