MOF catalysis of FeII-to-FeIII reaction for an ultrafast and one-step generation of the Fe2O3@MOF composite and uranium(VI) reduction by iron(II) under ambient conditions

Herein, we demonstrate that Zn-MOF-74 enables the ultrafast and one-step generation of the Fe2O3@MOF composite once Zn-MOF-74 contacts with FeSO4 solution. This unique reaction can be further applied in catalysis of U(VI) reduction by Fe(II) under ambient conditions. The results provide a highly renovated strategy for U(VI) reduction by Fe(II) just under ambient conditions, which completely subvert all established methods about U(VI) reduction by Fe(II) in which O2- and CO2-free conditions are absolutely required.