Ting
Han
*a,
Sicheng
Wang
ab,
Gustavo A.
Salazar
a and
Manal
Rawashdeh-Omary
a
aDivision of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Woman's University, Denton, Texas 76204, USA. E-mail: than1@twu.edu
bDepartment of Chemistry, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle, #305070, Denton, TX 76203-5017, USA
First published on 6th November 2025
Environmental pollution from organic contaminants poses a significant threat to ecosystems and human health, which require innovative and efficient remediation strategies. Porphyrin-based materials, renowned for their excellent photochemical properties, have emerged as promising photocatalysts for degrading organic pollutants under light irradiation. Introducing porosity into these porphyrin systems further enhances their catalytic performance by improving pollutant adsorption, increasing surface area, and facilitating efficient light utilization. This review highlights recent progress in the design, synthesis, and functionalization of porous porphyrin-based photocatalysts, including metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) and porous organic polymers (POPs). Particular attention is given to their applications in environmental remediation, such as the degradation of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, dyes, and industrial wastes. The underlying photocatalytic mechanisms, performance metrics, and real-world applicability are discussed in detail. Finally, the prospects and challenges of porous porphyrin-based materials for photocatalysis are also discussed.
Photocatalysis, which utilizes solar or artificial light to drive chemical reactions for pollutant degradation, has emerged as a highly promising solution.35–39 It enables the mineralization of harmful organic compounds into benign end-products such as CO2 and H2O under mild conditions.40,41 Among the various photocatalytic materials investigated, porphyrin-based compounds have attracted considerable attention due to their exceptional photophysical and photochemical properties, which make them highly suitable for light-driven applications.42–45 As naturally inspired macrocyclic molecules composed of four pyrrole rings linked via methine bridges, porphyrins possess a highly conjugated π-system that enables strong absorption in the visible region, particularly within the Soret and Q bands.46–48 This extensive light-harvesting ability, combined with their high redox activity and photostability, allows porphyrins to undergo efficient photoinduced electron transfer processes and sustain multiple catalytic cycles without significant degradation. Moreover, their structural versatility permits easy modification through peripheral substitution or central metal coordination, enabling fine-tuning of their electronic properties and photocatalytic behaviour. These features collectively position porphyrins as promising candidates in the design of next-generation photocatalysts for environmental remediation and energy-related applications.49–51 As shown in Fig. 2, building on the unique photophysical properties of porphyrins, their function as photocatalysts begins with the absorption of photons (hv) possessing energy greater than their band gap energy (Eg). This operation generates a charge separation due to the transfer of an electron from the VB (valence band) to the CB (conduction band), thus generating a pair of reactive species (h+ in the VB and e− in the CB). A photocatalytic reaction proceeds if the recombination of hole pairs is delayed. This is because excited electrons react with the dye molecule to create a reduced product, and excited holes react with O2 (the electron acceptor) dissolved in an aqueous solution and reduce it to a superoxide radical anion (O2˙−). On the other hand, the excited holes can react with OH− or water and oxidize them into hydroxyl radicals (˙OH).52,53 Other highly oxidizing materials, such as peroxide radicals, may also be produced during photodecomposition.54,55 The O2˙− is oxidized by the hole in the photocatalyst and partially becomes a singlet oxygen molecule (1O2). The resulting ROS are strong oxidizing agents that can mineralize pollutants into less toxic molecules.56–58
Despite their inherent advantages, traditional porphyrin photocatalysts often suffer from limitations including low surface area, poor pollutant adsorption, and limited charge separation efficiency. To address these challenges, significant efforts have been devoted to integrating porphyrin moieties into porous materials, thereby enhancing their photocatalytic potential. In this context, porous architectures such as metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs), and porous organic polymers (POPs) have emerged as highly promising platforms (Fig. 3). These materials not only provide large surface areas and tunable porosity but also facilitate efficient light harvesting, improved mass transport, and effective electron–hole separation.59–61
The incorporation of porphyrins into these frameworks enables synergistic enhancements in photocatalytic performance. For instance, MOFs and COFs allow for the rational design of pore environments and active sites through modular synthesis.62–64 Meanwhile, HOFs and POPs offer superior chemical and thermal stability, as well as ease of recyclability, which is crucial for sustainable environmental applications.65,66 Through optimized structural design and functionalization, these hybrid materials exhibit remarkable activity in the degradation of diverse classes of pollutants, offering real-world potential for water purification and environmental remediation.67,68
Recently, numerous reviews have documented the advancements in porphyrin-based materials, particularly in the context of energy-related applications such as photovoltaics, sensing, and photocatalytic hydrogen production.56,69–76 However, a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the structure of porphyrin-based porous materials and their photocatalytic performance in environmental applications—especially in water treatment—remains insufficiently explored. Furthermore, comparative analyses across different classes of porous architectures, including MOFs, COFs, HOFs, and POPs, are still limited, hindering the rational design of next generation photocatalysts.77,78
The aim of this review is to evaluate the recent developments in porous porphyrin-based materials, elucidate the correlations between their structural features and photocatalytic activity, and assess their practical applicability in environmental remediation, particularly for the degradation of persistent organic pollutants. Special attention is given to the design principles, synthetic strategies, and functionalization approaches that enhance their light-harvesting capabilities, stability, and reactive species generation. By providing a unified perspective on both fundamental material design and application-driven performance, this review seeks to bridge the current gap between material innovation and real-world environmental challenges. It also highlights key bottlenecks and future directions to guide researchers in the development of more efficient, stable, and scalable porphyrin-based porous photocatalysts for water purification and related applications (Tables 1–3).
| Target pollutant(s) | Photocatalyst | Porphyrin linkers | Metal nodes | Co-catalyst/sensitizer | Light source | Key active species | Efficiency (%) & time | Year | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BPA | PCN-222 |
|
Zr | — | 300 W Xe | 1O2 | 99.9 in 20 min | 2017 | 79 |
| RND | TCPP@PCN-777 |
|
Zr | PCN-777 | 500 W Xe | 1O2 | >99 in 1 h | 2023 | 80 |
| RhB, EB andRB | PCN-222(Fe) |
|
Zr | Fe3O4@SiO2 | 500 W halogen | ˙O2− | RhB (92), EB (99), RB (98) in 1 h | 2021 | 81 |
| CIP | Fe-TCPP |
|
Fe | — | 500 W Xe | ˙OH | 100 | 2022 | 82 |
| RhB | UiO-66 MOF |
|
Zr | UiO-66 | 800 W Xe | ˙OH | 100 in 1 h | 2019 | 83 |
| RhB and TC | Cu-TCPP MOF |
|
Cu | — | 300 W Xe | ˙O2− | RhB (81.2), TC (86.3) | 2020 | 84 |
| BPF | PCN-223 |
|
Zr | — | 500 W Xe | ˙O2−, 1O2 | 78 in 30 mins | 2022 | 85 |
| NIT, THI, IPU, and ATZ | FMOF |
|
Zr | — | Laser irradiation | h+, 1O2, ˙OH | NIT (95), THI (82.3), IPU (67.4), ATZ (76.2) | 2020 | 86 |
| CIP and TC | PCN-224 |
|
Zr | — | 500 W Xe | 1O2 | CIP (84), TC (92) in 1 h | 2021 | 87 |
| RhB and TC | PCN-222 |
|
Zr | Nitrogen-doped CDs | 300 W UV lamp | 1O2, ˙OH, ˙O2−, h+ | RhB (100), TC (90.93) in 20 mins | 2021 | 88 |
| MB | PCN-224 |
|
Zr | Polyvinyl dene fluoride | 300 W Xe | 1O2 | 95.6 in 1 h | 2021 | 89 |
| MO, MB, CV, and RhB | 2DZnTCPP |
|
Zn | — | 300 W Xe | ROS | MO (92), MB (99), RhB (98), CV (97) | 2022 | 90 |
| MO and MB | Fe–La |
|
La | — | 200 W Hg lamp | ROS | MO (55), MB (93) | 2023 | 91 |
| MB and RhB | AlPMOF(M) |
|
Al | — | 50 W white LED | ˙OH, ˙O2− | MB (98), RhB(96) in 1 h | 2024 | 92 |
| Atrazine | Fe-PCN-134 |
|
Zr | Zr-BTB | 300 W xenon lamp | ROS | 99.41 in 80 min | 2024 | 93 |
| Rh6G | UDS-2 |
|
Zn | — | 520 nm LED | 1O2 | 61 in 3 h | 2025 | 94 |
| Target pollution | Photocatalyst | Porphyrin | Linker | Light source | Active species | Efficiency (%) & time | Ref. | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CR | UPC-CMP-1 |
|
|
Visible light | ˙OH, h+, and ˙O2− | 88.3% | 111 | 2016 |
| RhB | CuPor-Ph- COF/g-C3N4 |
|
|
300 W Xe | ROS | 86% in 15 min | 108 | 2019 |
| OPs | COF-366 |
|
|
LED-light | 1O2 | >97% in 1 h | 110 | 2023 |
| RhB | CuTB-CO/CuTP-COF |
|
|
Visible light | 1O2 | 98.70% in 1 h | 112 | 2025 |
| RhB | TAPP-TFPB-COF |
|
|
Visible light | ROS | >95.6% in 3 h | 113 | 2025 |
| RhB | COF-H/HMTBD |
|
|
300 W Xe | ˙O2−/˙OH | 90% in 3 h | 114 | 2022 |
| 9,10-Diphenylanthracene | TCPP-2 |
|
— | LED-light | Not mentioned | 99% in 1.5 h | 115 | 2019 |
| SDZ | PFC-72/TiO2 |
|
— | Xe | 1O2 | 93.73% in 2 h | 116 | 2025 |
| MB | Por-CMPs |
|
|
300 W Xe | ˙O2−/˙OH | 98% in 1.5 h | 117 | 2024 |
| TC | Por-BT-1 |
|
|
300 W Xe | ROS | 84% in 40 min | 100 | 2025 |
| BPA | Por-BT-2 | Same as above | Same as above | 300 W Xe | ROS | 98% in 30 min | 100 | 2025 |
| MB | TCPP/TiO2 thin film |
|
TCPP-sensitized TiO2 thin film | Visible light | ROS | 49% for 5 h | 118 | 2019 |
| MB | Por-PD-COF |
|
|
300 W Xe | ˙O2−/˙OH | MB (98%) for 3 h | 119 | 2023 |
| BPA 2,4-D | COPs |
|
|
300 W Xe | ROS | 99% for 30 min | 120 | 2024 |
| MB, MO, and TC | CuPT-CPP |
|
|
Visible light | ˙O2−/˙OH/1O2 | 100% in 3 h | 121 | 2024 |
| Material class | Key advantages | Limitations | Active species |
|---|---|---|---|
| MOFs | Highly crystalline; tunable metal nodes and organic linkers; well-defined active sites; good porphyrin incorporation | Hydrolytic instability in water; sometimes limited thermal stability; scale-up challenges | Mechanistic studies, tunable ROS generation, and selective degradation pathways |
| COFs | Robust covalent bonds; long-range order; efficient charge transport; high surface area | Harsh synthesis conditions; difficult scalability; some frameworks show poor water dispersibility | Visible-light-driven pollutant degradation with efficient charge separation |
| HOFs | Simple, mild synthesis; metal-free; structural flexibility; biocompatibility | Stability issues due to weak hydrogen-bonding; relatively young field with fewer examples | Emerging candidates for aqueous photocatalysis with tunable porosity |
| POPs | Exceptional thermal/chemical stability; scalable synthesis; modular design; versatile functionalization | Amorphous nature complicates structure–property analysis; sometimes less predictable porosity | Robust photocatalysts with high pollutant affinity and operational durability |
Through this effort, we hope to inspire further interdisciplinary research aimed at unlocking the full potential of these promising materials in sustainable pollution control technologies.
One of the earliest demonstrations of porphyrin-based MOFs for water treatment was reported by Meng et al., who employed PCN-222, a Zr-porphyrin framework, for the adsorption and visible-light-driven degradation of bisphenol A (BPA).79 PCN-222 combined high adsorption capacity with remarkable photocatalytic activity, achieving complete BPA removal within 20 minutes under light irradiation. This pioneering work highlighted the dual roles of porphyrin MOFs as both adsorbents and photocatalysts, establishing a benchmark for environmental remediation applications. Building on such foundational studies, Tang and co-workers developed a porphyrin-based two-dimensional layered MOF, 2DZnTCPP, which was designed for efficient photo- and sono-catalytic water treatment, targeting both organic dyes and bacterial contaminants.90 Constructed from Zn clusters and TCPP ligands, the MOF features a high surface area (854.4 m2 g−1), 55% porosity, and abundant exposed Zn sites that enhance catalytic activity. The Zn species promote intersystem crossing (ISC) via increased spin–orbit coupling, enabling efficient singlet oxygen (1O2) generation, while the 2D structure reduces self-quenching from π–π stacking (Fig. 4). Additionally, ligand-to-metal charge transfer (LMCT) modulates the energy band structure facilitating hydroxyl radical (˙OH) production through water splitting at Zn sites. As a result, 2DZnTCPP demonstrated excellent photocatalytic and sonocatalytic performance, completely degrading various organic dyes within 10 minutes and achieving over 99.99999% bactericidal efficiency within 30 minutes, all without the need for external oxidants like O3 or H2O2. This study presents a strategy for designing and synthesizing MOF-based photocatalysts aimed at purifying and treating textile wastewater, with a focus on developing a more efficient, rapid, and environmentally friendly catalytic system.
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| Fig. 4 Schematic diagram of 2DZnTcpp for sono-/photo-catalytic water decontamination. Reprinted with permission.90 Copyright (2022) of American Chemical Society. | ||
Wang and co-workers developed a porphyrin-based MOF system demonstrating enhanced degradation of bisphenol F (BPF) under visible light, even under high salinity conditions in 2023.85 The MOF exhibited excellent photocatalytic performance, attributed to its robust porphyrin ligand structure and porous framework, facilitating effective adsorption and activation of BPF molecules. Under visible light irradiation, the system rapidly generated singlet oxygen 1O2 and other reactive oxygen species responsible for efficient BPF degradation (Fig. 5). Remarkably, high salt concentrations typically inhibitory to photocatalysis instead enhanced degradation rates, highlighting the MOF's unique tolerance and adaptability to saline environments. Mechanistic investigations confirmed that 1O2 played a dominant role, supported by control experiments with scavengers. The material also showed good stability and recyclability, emphasizing its potential for practical water treatment applications in saline wastewater and marine environments.
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| Fig. 5 EPR spectra in the PCN-223/visible-light system with/without three coexisting anions (Cl−, SO42− and NO3−) using (a) DMPO for O2−, (b) TEMP for 1O2, and (c) DMPO for ˙OH, (d) the concentrations of anions with/without catalysts, and (e) proposed mechanism of enhanced photo-induced ˙OH generation under high salinity conditions. Reprinted with permission.85 (Copyright (2022) of Elsevier). | ||
In 2025, Harvey and co-workers developed a porphyrin-based three-dimensional interpenetrated MOF, UDS-2 (3D-[Zn2(TPyP)(NO2)2]n) (Fig. 6), as a highly efficient photosensitizer for singlet oxygen (1O2) generation and photocatalytic water treatment.94 Constructed from Zn(NO2)2 nodes and 5,10,15,20-tetrapyridylporphyrin zinc(II) (ZnTPyP) ligands, UDS-2 exhibits distinct zinc coordination environments—square pyramidal and quasi-octahedral—that contribute to its unique electronic structure. The MOF shows a low-energy charge transfer (CT) transition and enhanced energy transfer efficiency via singlet–singlet and triplet–triplet mechanisms, enabling strong 1O2 production in both solid and aqueous phases. Its structure supports rapid exciton migration, minimizing energy losses and surpassing benchmark porphyrin-based MOFs such as PCN-222 and PCN-224 in photosensitization performance. UDS-2 demonstrated remarkable photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine 6G under visible light. This work highlights a multifunctional MOF platform with superior photodynamic properties for sustainable water purification and environmental remediation.
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| Fig. 6 Schematic diagram of Zn–porphyrin MOFs for photocatalytic water decontamination. Reprinted with permission.94 Copyright (2025) of the American Chemical Society. | ||
Wu and researchers synthesized and characterized Fe-PCN-134, a mixed-linker metalloporphyrin metal–organic framework (MOF), designed for the efficient degradation of atrazine, a persistent herbicide, via a visible-light-driven photo-Fenton reaction in 2022.93 The MOF incorporated both Fe centers and porphyrin ligands, enabling dual functionality as a photocatalyst and a Fenton reagent. Under visible light, Fe-PCN-134 generated hydroxyl radicals (˙OH) and singlet oxygen (1O2), leading to rapid and effective degradation of atrazine. The incorporation of mixed linkers enhanced light absorption and electronic transfer, improving catalytic efficiency (Fig. 7). Mechanistic studies, including radical scavenging experiments and spectroscopic analyses, confirmed the involvement of both ˙OH and 1O2 species. The material maintained high activity over multiple cycles and showed robust structural stability. Additionally, environmental evaluations demonstrated low Fe leaching and good performance across a wide pH range, highlighting Fe-PCN-134's potential for sustainable and practical application in the removal of organic micropollutants from contaminated water.
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| Fig. 7 Illustration of how the Zr-BTB/Fe-TCPP(Cl) photocatalyst uses sunlight to break down pollutants in water into harmless substances. The process is safe for plants and human cells. Reprinted with permission.93 (Copyright (2024) of Elsevier). | ||
Another work from Nguyen and co-workers in 2024 developed a series of porphyrinic aluminum-based metal–organic frameworks (AlPMOF(M)) metalated with Cu2+ and Co2+ ions for efficient photodegradation of organic dyes under visible light.92 Synthesized via a solvothermal method, these MOFs exhibited strong photoabsorption in the visible region, high stability, and suitable band gaps for photocatalysis (Fig. 8). Among them, the Cu-metallated AlPMOF showed outstanding performance, achieving 98% degradation of methylene blue and 96% of rhodamine B within 300 minutes at high dye concentrations (100 mg L−1). This high activity was attributed to enhanced charge separation and reactive oxygen species generation, facilitated by the Cu-porphyrin centers. The material demonstrated excellent reusability over seven cycles without significant loss in performance. Mechanistic studies using UHPLC-MS and DFT calculations revealed detailed degradation pathways and confirmed the formation of oxidative intermediates, highlighting AlPMOF(Cu) as a promising and stable photocatalyst for wastewater treatment applications.
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| Fig. 8 The plausible photodegradation mechanism of organic dyes over AlPMOF(Cu). Reprinted with permission.92 (Copyright (2024) of Elsevier). | ||
The application of porphyrin COFs for the degradation of organic pollutants was first demonstrated in 2019. In this pioneering study, Hou et al. synthesized a g-C3N4-based 2D/2D heterojunction photocatalyst using a composite of the Cu-porphyrin COF (CuPor-Ph-COF) and g-C3N4 for RhB degradation under photocatalytic conditions at λ ≥ 420 nm.108 The 2D COF/g-C3N4 heterojunction showed improved photodegradation of RhB (up to 86%), higher than parent components, g-C3N4 and CuPor-Ph-COP with percentage degradation of 23 and 36%, respectively. The improved catalytic activity of the heterojunction hybrid was aided by synergistic interaction between the COF and g-C3N4, facilitating photo-induced electron transfer from the porphyrinoid COF to g-C3N4 producing free superoxide radicals.
In 2023, Karimi and co-workers developed a sulfur-functionalized porphyrin-based covalent organic framework (COF), termed PS@COF, as a novel metal-free dual-functional photocatalyst for the degradation of organophosphorus pesticides under visible-LED light.110 Synthesized via post-modification of COF-366 with elemental sulfur under solvent-free conditions, the resulting material combined porphyrin's strong visible-light absorption with sulfur's nucleophilic catalytic activity. PS@COF achieved excellent degradation efficiency (>97%) of diazinon and parathion within 60 minutes at pH 5.5, even at concentrations up to 50 mg L−1. Kinetic analysis followed a pseudo-second-order model, and mechanistic insights from GC–MS and TOC analysis revealed effective detoxification pathways. Importantly, PS@COF maintained its structural integrity and catalytic performance over six reuse cycles. This study presents a sustainable, metal-free strategy for pesticide degradation, leveraging visible-light energy and offering promising applications in water purification (Fig. 9).
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| Fig. 9 The suggested mechanism for the photocatalytic degradation process over PS@COF; and related photocatalytic equations. Reprinted with permission.110 (Copyright (2023) of Elsevier). | ||
In 2023, Wu et al. reported the design and synthesis of a dual-functional porphyrin-based covalent organic framework (Por-PD-COF) with excellent selective adsorption and photocatalytic properties.119 Constructed through a condensation reaction between meso-tetrakis(p-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin (TCPP) and para-phenylenediamine (PD), the 2D COF featured amide linkages, high surface area, abundant active sites, and narrow bandgap (1.02 eV). Por-PD-COF demonstrated selective and high-capacity adsorption of methylene blue (MB) over other dyes like rhodamine B (RhB) and methyl orange (MO), attributed to its unique pore size and charge selectivity. Notably, in competitive systems, MB could replace pre-adsorbed MO, highlighting its superior affinity. Beyond adsorption, Por-PD-COF also showed excellent photocatalytic degradation of MB under visible light (99% removal in 180 minutes) and retained performance after four reuse cycles. This work presents Por-PD-COF as a promising, reusable material for targeted organic dye removal and environmental purification (Fig. 10).
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| Fig. 10 (a) Synthesis of Por-PD-COF by the condensation reaction between TCPP and PD; (b) dual functions of Por-PD-COF including MB selective absorption in the mixtures, and photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation. Reprinted with permission.119 (Copyright (2023) of Elsevier). | ||
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| Fig. 11 Preparation conditions for the present three HOFs. Reprinted with permission.115 Copyright (2019) of the American Chemical Society. | ||
Zhao and coworkers reported the development of a novel photocatalyst, PFC-72/TiO2, combining porphyrinic hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (porph-HOFs) with TiO2 nanoparticles for efficient degradation of sulfadiazine (SDZ), a persistent antibiotic pollutant in wastewater. By integrating cobalt-based porphyrin ligands (TCPP-Co) with TiO2 through 4-mercaptopyridine (4-PySH) as a bridging molecule, the resulting heterojunction exhibits enhanced visible-light absorption, improved charge separation, and high photocatalytic activity.116 The high surface area of PFC-72 facilitates better dispersion of TiO2 and provides more active sites for SDZ adsorption and degradation. Density functional theory (DFT) analysis and characterization confirmed the system's improved light-harvesting and electron transfer properties. The optimized composite achieved a 93.73% SDZ removal rate within 120 minutes and retained high stability and reusability over multiple cycles, demonstrating its promise as a sustainable, high-performance material for environmental remediation (Fig. 12).
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| Fig. 12 Possible photocatalytic mechanism for PFC-72/TiO2 (up). Possible degradation pathways of SDZ (below). Reprinted with permission.116 (Copyright (2025) of Elsevier). | ||
POPs have also shown promise in photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. A pioneering study by Xiao and co-workers reported the synthesis of an iron(III) porphyrin-based conjugated microporous polymer (UPC-CMP-1) via Sonogashira–Hagihara coupling between Fe(III) 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4′-bromophenyl)porphine and 1,4-diethynylbenzene. This material exhibited a dendrite-like nanostructure and remarkable photocatalytic activity, achieving 88.3% degradation of Congo Red under visible light irradiation within only 120 seconds.111 Moreover, UPC-CMP-1 demonstrated high selectivity toward Congo Red over other dyes, underscoring the advantages of porphyrin-based POPs in targeted pollutant degradation. Compared with traditional semiconductor catalysts such as TiO2 and ZnO, which suffer from weak photostability and agglomeration issues, UPC-CMP-1 offers superior stability and reusability due to its fully covalent framework. This seminal contribution established POPs as a viable platform for efficient, selective, and stable photocatalytic remediation of organic contaminants, paving the way for subsequent innovations in post-synthetic modification and donor–acceptor engineering of porphyrin-based POPs.
The study by Zhang et al. introduces a strategic post-synthetic modification to enhance the hydrophilicity and photocatalytic performance of a porphyrin–perylene-based conjugated polymer.120 By incorporating quaternary ammonium groups into the COP backbone (yielding PDIN-PyN+), the resulting material achieved not only improved water dispersibility but also a stronger electrostatic affinity for anionic pollutants like bisphenol A (BPA) and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid. As shown in Fig. 13, this structural modification significantly enhanced charge separation and visible light utilization, enabling rapid degradation of both pollutants with removal efficiencies exceeding 99% within 30 minutes under visible light. The integration of electron donor–acceptor motifs and ionic functionalities underscores a rational design approach for POP-based photocatalysts with high reactivity and practical applicability in water purification. This work highlights the growing potential of post-modified POPs in environmental remediation, particularly in tackling persistent organic pollutants under mild and sustainable conditions.
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| Fig. 13 Schematic illustration of a porphyrin-based photocatalytic system for reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and organic pollutant degradation. Reprinted with permission.120 (Copyright (2024) of Elsevier). | ||
Building upon the growing research into porphyrin-based porous organic polymers (POPs), recent studies have demonstrated innovative structural modifications and composite designs that significantly enhance photocatalytic activity for pollutant degradation. In particular, the work by Yu et al. introduces a new class of porphyrin-based conjugated microporous polymers (Por-CMPs-1–2), synthesized via Sonogashira–Hagihara coupling, and further functionalized by incorporating nanoscale zerovalent iron (nZVI) to form Por-CMPs-1–2@nZVI composites.117 This approach leverages the redox properties of nZVI and the extended conjugation and high surface area of CMPs to synergistically boost photocatalytic performance under visible light irradiation. The composite exhibits narrowed band gaps (1.45 and 1.32 eV), enabling efficient activation under visible light and facilitating the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), primarily superoxide anions and hydroxyl radicals, for effective degradation of organic dyes such as methylene blue (MB). Por-CMPs-2@nZVI achieved up to 98% degradation of 10 ppm MB in 150 minutes, outperforming its counterparts without nZVI. Moreover, this work addresses practical limitations of POP-based photocatalysts, such as recyclability and processability, by developing membrane materials (Por-CMPs@nZVI-m) through the immobilization of catalysts on copper nets. This not only enhances their reusability but also paves the way for industrial-scale applications. Collectively, the integration of porphyrinic light-harvesting units with redox-active metal nanoparticles into a robust CMP framework marks a significant step forward in designing multifunctional POP-based photocatalysts for environmental remediation (Fig. 14).
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| Fig. 14 Schematic diagram illustrating the mechanism of photocatalytic degradation of MB using Por-CMPs-2@nZVI (top). Synthesis route of Por-CMPs-1–2@nZVI and Por-CMPs-1@nZVI-membranes (below). Reprinted with permission.117 (Copyright (2024) of the American Chemical Society). | ||
Xu et al. (2024) reported a significant advancement in the development of donor–acceptor (D–A) type conjugated porous polymers (CPPs) by synthesizing a three-dimensional CuPT-CPP using copper porphyrin (CuTAPP) as the donor and triazine (TFPT) as the acceptor.121 As shown in Fig. 15, this rational design integrates the strong visible-light absorption and catalytic capabilities of porphyrins with the electron-withdrawing nature of triazine, resulting in a material with enhanced intramolecular charge separation, broad light absorption (400–800 nm), and improved photocatalytic efficiency. The 3D architecture ensures high surface accessibility and spatial separation of active sites, promoting faster mass transfer and reducing charge recombination. CuPT-CPP exhibits outstanding visible-light-driven photodegradation performance against a range of organic pollutants, including rhodamine B, methylene blue, methyl orange, and tetracycline hydrochloride, achieving near-complete degradation in short timeframes. Its excellent chemical stability and reusability further highlight its potential for practical environmental remediation applications. Compared to other polymer-based photocatalysts, CuPT-CPP stands out due to its synergistic D–A framework and organometallic functionality, offering valuable insights for the future design of efficient, metal–organic photocatalysts for wastewater treatment.
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| Fig. 15 Schematic illustration of the photocatalytic mechanism of a porphyrin-based donor–acceptor porous polymer under visible light for the degradation of organic pollutants (RhB, MB, MO, and TC). Reprinted with permission.121 (Copyright (2024) of Elsevier). | ||
Very recently, Fan et al. presented a facile and cost-effective approach for synthesizing porphyrin-based CMPs via Suzuki coupling, integrating electron donor–acceptor architectures by combining porphyrin and benzothiadiazole moieties.100 This strategic molecular design enhances charge separation and light absorption, which are critical for efficient photocatalysis. Furthermore, through post-synthetic modifications such as quaternization, the authors successfully tailored the CMPs’ surface properties to improve their interaction with organic pollutants. The resulting materials, Por-BT-1 and Por-BT-2, exhibited excellent photocatalytic performance under visible light, achieving up to 98% removal efficiency of contaminants like tetracycline and bisphenol A within remarkably short irradiation times (Fig. 16). Notably, the study thoroughly investigated the influence of environmental parameters including pH, catalyst dosage, the presence of inorganic anions, and different water matrices, demonstrating the robustness and versatility of these CMPs in practical water treatment settings. This work not only highlights a scalable and efficient synthetic route but also underscores the potential of porphyrin-based CMPs as highly effective photocatalysts for the degradation of emerging organic contaminants, addressing an urgent need in environmental remediation.
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| Fig. 16 Porphyrin-based photocatalysts degrade tetracycline (TC) and bisphenol A (BPA) into CO2 and H2O by generating reactive oxygen species (1O2, ˙O2−) under light irradiation. Reprinted with permission.100 (Copyright (2025) of The Royal Society of Chemistry). | ||
The photocatalytic efficiency of porous porphyrin-based frameworks is governed by a delicate interplay between molecular-level porphyrin chemistry and framework-level design. At the molecular scale, metalation of the porphyrin core strongly influences light absorption and electron transfer, with Fe, Co, and Cu centers often enhancing redox activity and ROS generation relative to metal-free porphyrins. Substituent effects on the porphyrin ring further tune electronic properties, enabling selective activation pathways. At the framework level, pore size distribution and crystallinity dictate charge carrier mobility and pollutant accessibility; highly ordered COFs typically provide efficient charge transport, whereas flexible HOFs facilitate dynamic host–guest interactions. Incorporation of donor–acceptor motifs or ionic functional groups can improve charge separation, extend visible-light utilization, and enhance affinity toward specific pollutants, as exemplified in PDIN-PyN+ POPs for BPA degradation. Comparative studies reveal that MOFs excel in tunability of catalytic sites, COFs in directional charge transport, POPs in robustness and functional group diversity, and HOFs in mild synthesis and adaptability. These correlations underscore that deliberate molecular engineering combined with tailored framework design is essential for achieving high-performance photocatalysts.
This review has systematically summarized recent advances in the synthesis strategies and structural functionalization of porous porphyrin-based materials, underscoring their tunable porosity, chemical versatility, and the role of metal centers in modulating catalytic activity. Comprehensive discussions of photocatalytic mechanisms and performance evaluation metrics reveal that while substantial progress has been made, challenges such as photostability, catalyst recyclability, and operational robustness in complex aqueous environments persist. Moreover, discrepancies between laboratory-scale efficiencies and real-world applicability highlight the need for continued investigation into the influence of environmental variables such as pH, co-existing ions, and organic matter.
Looking forward, several critical research directions must be prioritized to propel porous porphyrin-based photocatalysts from conceptual frameworks to viable environmental technologies. Firstly, scalable and cost-effective synthetic routes that retain structural integrity and catalytic functionality are imperative for practical deployment. Advanced synthetic methodologies, including controlled post-synthetic modifications and hierarchical structure engineering, may enable fine-tuning of porosity and electronic properties to optimize photocatalytic activity. Secondly, mechanistic studies leveraging state-of-the-art spectroscopic and computational tools are essential to elucidate the complex charge transfer processes and ROS generation pathways at molecular and nanoscale levels. This knowledge will inform rational design principles for next-generation materials with enhanced quantum efficiencies.
Finally, rigorous assessment of environmental compatibility, toxicity, and recyclability must accompany the advancement of these materials to ensure sustainable application. Pilot-scale studies and field trials will be critical to validate performance under diverse and dynamic environmental conditions. The integration of porous porphyrin-based photocatalysts into existing water treatment infrastructure could offer transformative improvements in pollutant degradation efficiency and operational sustainability.
In conclusion, porous porphyrin-based photocatalysts represent a frontier in the development of sustainable, efficient, and versatile materials for environmental remediation. By bridging fundamental materials chemistry with applied environmental science, future research can unlock their full potential to mitigate pollution and safeguard ecological and human health on a global scale.
| BET | Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (surface area analysis) |
| BPA | Bisphenol A |
| COF | Covalent organic framework |
| CMP | Conjugated microporous polymer |
| CPP | Conjugated porous polymer |
| CuPT-CPP | Copper porphyrin–triazine conjugated porous polymer |
| CuTCPP | Coppermeso-tetra(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin |
| CR | Congo red |
| D–A | Donor–acceptor |
| DAT | Diaminotriazine |
| DAT-porphyrin | 5,10,15,20-tetra(4-(2,4-diaminotriazine)phenyl)porphyrin |
| DMPO | 5,5-Dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide |
| DFT | Density functional theory |
| EPR | Electron paramagnetic resonance |
| H6TZPP | 5,10,15,20-Tetrakis[4-(2,3,4,5-tetrazolylphenyl)]porphyrin |
| HOF | Hydrogen-bonded organic framework |
| HR-TEM | High-resolution transmission electron microscopy |
| HSE | Heyd–Scuseria–Ernzerhof (hybrid functional used in DFT) |
| ISC | Intersystem crossing |
| k_obs | Observed Pseudo-first-order rate constant |
| LED | Light emitting diode |
| LMCT | Ligand-to-metal charge transfer |
| MB | Methylene blue |
| MO | Methyl orange |
| MOF | Metal–organic framework |
| nZVI | Nanoscale zerovalent iron |
| NIR | Near-infrared radiation |
| OPs | Organophosphorus pesticides |
| P-COF | Porphyrin-based covalent organic framework |
| P-CMP | Porphyrin-based conjugated microporous polymer |
| P-HOF | Porphyrin-based hydrogen-bonded organic framework |
| P-MOF | Porphyrin-based metal–organic framework |
| PD | para-Phenylenediamine |
| PDIN-PyN+ | Quaternized porphyrin–perylene POP |
| PFC-72 | Porphyrin framework composite |
| POP | Porous organic polymer |
| Por-BT-1/2 | Porphyrin-benzothiadiazole CMPs |
| Por-CMP | Porphyrin-based CMP |
| Por-CMPs@nZVI | Porphyrin CMPs with nanoscale zerovalent iron |
| Por-CMPs@nZVI-m | Membrane composite of porphyrin CMPs@nZVI |
| PS-mod | Post-synthetic modification |
| QY | Quantum yield |
| RND | Ranitidine |
| RhB | Rhodamine B |
| ROS | Reactive oxygen species |
| SDZ | Sulfadiazine |
| SIM | Simulated irradiation matrix |
| TCPP | meso-Tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin |
| TC/TCH | Tetracycline/tetracycline hydrochloride |
| TEMP | 2,2,6,6-Tetramethylpiperidine |
| TFPT | 2,4,6-Tris(4-formylphenyl)-1,3,5-triazine |
| TGA | Thermogravimetric analysis |
| TOC | Total organic carbon |
| T 90 | Time to reach 90% pollutant degradation |
| UHPLC-MS | Ultra high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry |
| UPC-H4a | Hydrogen-bonded porphyrin framework from DAT |
| VLP | Visible light photocatalysis |
| Xe lamp | Xenon Arc lamp (simulated solar light source) |
| 1O2 | Singlet oxygen |
| ˙OH | Hydroxyl radical |
| ˙O2− | Superoxide radical |
| h+ | Photogenerated hole |
| 2,4-D | 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid |
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