Unravelling the Multiple Synergies in MOF/CMP Supramolecular Heterojunction for Enhanced Artificial Photosynthesis

Metal-organic framework (MOF) and conjugated microporous polymers (CMP) are two groups of supramolecular structures with potential applications for artificial photosynthesis though their catalytic activities are yet to be improved. A MOF/CMP hybrid photocatalyst NU@FNBZ with markedly higher catalytic activity for CO2 reduction to CO is hereby reported. The hybrid catalyst benefits from the high CO2 adsorption capacity of NU and the high visible light response of FNBZ. Moreover, the covalent bonding facilitates the formation of type II heterojunction that allows electron transfer from FNBZ to NU, leading to improved catalytic activity in the electron rich NU and enhanced CO2 adsorption in the electron depleted FNBZ. This work manifests that multiple synergy effects can be achieved by rational design of hybrid supramolecular photocatalysts.