Pd@Ce Metal organic framework For Dual Reduction of Nitrophenols and Chromium (VI)

Abstract

Promising photocatalytic activities of Ce based materials, here in, a Cerium terephthalate metal organic framework (Ce-BDC) has been decorated with PdNPs via double solvent method and established the characteristic features through PXRD, FTIR, FESEM, & BET surface area analysis. The excellent redox activity, electron transfer and unique photo-harvesting ability of the material demanded itself as an active member in the arena of photocatalyst materials. Interestingly these features were conveyed through the application in the degradation of environmental pollutants; as a representatives potassium dichromate ion (Cr(VI)) & 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) molecule. In particular, Its photo-responsive catalytic activity was evaluated in aqueous medium under room temperature for [Cr(VI)] and (4-NP) removal. Pd@Ce-BDC achieved ~94% reduction of 4-NP to 4-aminophenol within 10 min at room temperature (k = 0.13 min⁻¹), while ~95% of Cr(VI) was reduced to Cr(III) within 20 min under sunlight irradiation (k = 0.206 min⁻¹). These findings underscore the promise as highly efficient photocatalysts for environmental remediation, where the interplay of framework design and redox-active centers governs performance.