Enhanced room temperature CO₂ photoreduction on gas-solid interfaces using nanocrystals integrated with ZIF-8 wrapping design

Composites derived from metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) show promise as catalysts for the photocatalytic reduction of CO₂. However, their potential is hindered by constraints such as limited light absorption and sluggish electron transfer and separation, impacting the overall efficiency of the photocatalytic process. In this study, TiO₂ nanocrystals, modified with Pt^x+, underwent laser etching were encapsulated within the traditional MOF-ZIF-8 framework. This enhanced the adsorption capabilities for CO₂ reactants and solar light, while also facilitating directed electron transfer and the separation of photogenerated charges. The finely-tuned catalyst demonstrates impressive CH₄ selectivity at 9.5 %, with yields of 250. 24 μmol g^-1 h^-1 for CO and 25.43 μmol g^-1 h^-1 for CH₄, utilizing water as a hole trap and H⁺ source. This study demonstrates the viability of achieving characteristics related to the separation of photogenerated charges in TiO₂ nanocrystals through laser etching and MOF composite catalysts. It offers novel perspectives for designing MOF-based catalysts with enhanced performance in artificial photosynthesis.