Modification of a Copper-Based Metal-Organic Framework with Graphene Oxide for the Removal of Sulfur Compounds

Copper-based metal-organic framework/graphene oxide (MOF-199/GO) composites were prepared under hydrothermal conditions. The adsorption performances of the composites for CH3SCH3 and CH3CH2SH removal under ambient conditions were evaluated. The materials were characterized by XRD, FTIR spectroscopy, nitrogen adsorption/desorption, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The composites exhibit a unique layered structure. MGO-1 with 5% GO shows a higher surface area than that of pristine MOF-199 owing to the creation of new pores between the MOF-199 and GO units. MGO-1 has the best adsorption capacities for CH3SCH3 and CH3CH2SH, and the uptake reaches 6.12 and 4.31%, respectively, because of the increased surface area and dispersive forces in the new pores. During the adsorption of CH3CH2SH, a chemical reaction results in the destruction of the MOF structure. However, reversible chemisorption was found for CH3SCH3 removal, as testified by fixed-bed regeneration. Multiple adsorption/regeneration cycles show that the MGO composites are promising adsorbents for CH3SCH3 removal.