Rapid synthesis of a novel nano-crystalline mesoporous faujasite type metal-organic framework, ZIF-8 catalyst, its detailed characterization, and NaBH4 assisted, enhanced catalytic Rhodamine B degradation

In this manuscript, we have reported a strategy for the synthesis and fine control of the crystal size and morphology of a novel mesoporous faujasite type zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) nanocrystals in water solution. The synthesized materials are mesoporous faujasite type, highly crystalline, nanometer-sized, and with a high surface area. The materials have been characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron micrograph (TEM), BET-Surface area, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic (FT-IR) analysis. The distribution of nanoparticles is observed through DLS spectroscopy. The thermogravimetry/differential thermal analysis reveals that the material is stable even up to 600 degrees C. Tetrahedral coordination and 4+ oxidation state of Zinc is found through UV-vis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies. The NaBH4 assisted rhodamine B degradation at room temperature shows excellent catalytic activity (similar to 95 %) in a short duration (10 min.). A plausible mechanism of degradation on its catalytic activity is also proposed.