In situ preparation of MOF-derived Fe2O3 nanorods for visible-light-driven oxygen evolution

Abstract

Nanoscale iron oxide materials hold significant practical significance due to their stability, low cost, low toxicity, and favorable photophysical properties. In this study, we have utilized volatile Fe-based MOFs to synthesize Fe₂O₃ nanorods in situ in ambient air at room temperature. The findings demonstrate the successful synthesis of Fe₂O₃ nanorods through a simple method. In addition, under visible light irradiation (λ > 420 nm), the prepared Fe₂O₃ possesses a high photocurrent density up to 0.11 mA cm⁻² and exhibits an excellent visible-light-driven oxygen evolution activity of 55.2 μmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹. These results suggest the potential of a catalytic system capable of converting solar light into oxygen over an extended period, using only abundant elements found on Earth. This general approach may illuminate a new pathway for the mass production of MOF-derived materials in the field of catalysis.