Cascade applications of robust MIL-96 metal organic frameworks in environmental remediation: Proof of concept

In this paper, we demonstrate a cascade application of functional materials in adsorption and catalysis. Metal organic frameworks, MIL-96, were synthesized by a single solvent (water), and methanol (MIL-96-Me) or ethanol (MIL-96-Et) modulated method. Methanol modulation results in a change in porous structure and better CO2 adsorption and selectivity. After gas-phase adsorption of CO2, the MIL-96 can be reused for liquid-phase removal of water contaminants, demonstrating high capacities of para-hydroxybenzoic acid (p-HBA). Then, a transformation of the used MIL-96 by pyrolysis was employed to produce a metal oxide/C composite for catalytic activation of peroxyrnonosulfate (PMS) to degrade an organic pollutant, methyl orange. The composite exhibited excellent performance in the dye degradation. This study presents a proof of concept of integrated utilization of robust and functional nanomaterials for multiple applications without producing solid wastes after each use.