Synthesis of MXene/Metal-Organic Framework (MXOF) composite as an efficient photocatalyst for dye contaminant degradation

The current study focused on the fabrication of highly efficient and durable photocatalysts based on Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheets decorated with a highly porous zinc-based metal–organic framework (MOF) for photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes. The MXene/MOF (MXOF) composite was fabricated by solvothermal growth of Zn-MOF crystals on the MXene nanosheets. The structural, morphological, optical, and electrochemical properties of MXOF composite were investigated using FTIR, XRD, FESEM, BET, UV–Vis DRS, EIS, and PL spectroscopy techniques. Highly porous MXOF composite with a tunable bandgap energy (4.99 eV) and high specific surface area provided rapid charge transfer and shortened the recombination rate of photo-generated electrons and holes. The MXOF composite exhibits high photodegradation efficiency of 62% and 35% for MB and DR31 dyes, respectively, and good reusability. The resulting MXOF composite exhibits the synergetic effect of Zn-MOF and Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheet on promoting the outstanding photocatalytic dye degradation performance. This study opens up new possibilities for the design and fabrication of highly efficient photocatalysts for wastewater treatment applications.