Oxadiazole-based covalent organic framework for the photocatalytic production of hydrogen peroxide

Abstract

Photocatalysis is a promising technology to generate environmentally friendly hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). However, the recombination between electrons and holes hinders the widespread usage of traditional inorganic photocatalysts. Herein, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are recognized as ideal candidates for photosynthesis of H₂O₂. Meanwhile, heterocycles from the frameworks are used to modify the electronic environment to further improve the photocatalytic activity of COFs. Herein, a novel building block 2,5-bis(4-aminophenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole (OD) was introduced to fabricate oxadiazole-based COFs (OD-COF) for photosynthesis of H₂O₂. The OD-COF exhibits rational chemical stability and desirable optical activity with the H₂O₂ production rate of 233.33 μmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹ under sacrificial conditions. Eventually, the two-step one-electron ORR is concluded. Therefore, the investigation on photosynthesis of H₂O₂ presents promising applications for oxadiazole-based COFs.