Photocatalytic Hydrogen Peroxide Production by a Mixed Ligand-Functionalized Uranyl-Organic Framework

Hydrogen peroxide ( H2O2) production driven by solar energy has received enormous attention due to its high efficiency, low cost, and environmental friendliness characteristics. Searching for new photocatalytic materials for H2O2 production is one of the most important targets. In this work, a new three-dimensional (3D) uranyl-organic framework material was constructed with mixed ligands via a solvothermal reaction and used for photocatalytic H2O2 production. The mixed ligand strategy not only benefits the construction of a 3D uranyl-organic framework but also introduces strong photon absorption groups into the framework. The thiophene and pyridine rings in the framework enhance photon absorption and carrier transfer. In addition, with the assistance of the hydrogen abstraction reaction of uranyl centers, the H2O2 production rate reaches 345 mu mol h(-1) g(-1). This study provides a new blueprint for exploring the artificial photosynthesis of H2O2 through uranium-based metal-organic frameworks.