Hierarchical confinement of Prussian blue nanoparticles via NH2-MIL-88B (Fe): Rational design and electrocatalytic application

The design of Prussian blue nanoparticles (PB NPs) with satisfied electrocatalytic ability and stability is still challenging. Herein, a hierarchical confinement strategy of PB NPs is proposed using NH2MIL-88B(Fe) (denoted herein as NH2MIL) as both self-confined template and Fe3+ sources, K-3[Fe(CN)(3)] as precursor. The catalytic synthesis of PB NPs is further achieved during the hydrothermal process at 100 C-degrees for 1 h. The as-prepared PB@NH2MIL exhibits the morphology of "sea cucumber", retaining the intrinsic skeleton of NH2MIL dotted with lots of PB NPs (<40 nm). In addition, the initial coordination of [Fe(CN)(3)](3-) with the active free coordination sites of NH2MIL results in the coatom phenomenon between NH2MIL and PB NPs. Thus, the as-prepared PB@NH2MIL possesses the efficient electronic transmission, the enhanced electrocatalytic properties as well as stability under prolonged electrochemical measurements. Finally, the as-prepared PB@NH2MIL can be used as artificial peroxidase for the electrochemical detection of H2O2 with a wider linear range (0.01-1000 mu M) and low detection limit (3 nM).