Deciphering interfacial interactions in a dual-functional MOF@COF composite for organic pollutant removal from water

Abstract

MOF@COF composites have emerged as a promising class of engineered materials with unique functionalities, combining the high porosity and tunability of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with the chemical and mechanical stability of covalent-organic frameworks (COFs). While their advantageous properties are well-recognized, their structural intricacies and the nature of the interfacial interactions remain insufficiently explored. In this study, an Fe-MOF@COF composite is presented, exhibiting dual functionalities for the efficient removal of organic pollutants from water. The enhanced performance is attributed to the unique properties of the MOF–COF interface, where synergistic interactions between the two porous materials play a critical role. Advanced synchrotron techniques were employed to probe interfacial interactions at the atomic and molecular levels. These findings underscore the potential of Fe-MOF@COF composites as highly effective materials for water remediation, providing deeper insights into their structural behavior and interfacial properties.