MOF-derived MoO2/C composites as high-performance electrodes for electrochemical uranium(vi) removal

Abstract

In this study, an octahedral MoO₂/C composite was synthesized by calcining a molybdenum-based metal–organic framework (MOF) precursor. This unique octahedral architecture significantly enhances the electro-adsorption performance while ensuring excellent structural stability. The optimized material exhibited a high U(VI) adsorption capacity of 806.79 mg g⁻¹ from a 300 mg L⁻¹ initial solution under an applied potential of 1.2 V for 5 h. Moreover, it demonstrated excellent cycling stability, maintaining a U(VI) removal rate above 65% even after ten consecutive adsorption–desorption cycles using 0.1 mol L⁻¹ Na₂CO₃ as the eluent. This work provides a novel design strategy for developing high-capacity, stable electrode materials for efficient uranium electrosorption.