Fine-Tuning the Metal Oxo Cluster Composition and Phase Structure of Ni/Ti Bimetallic MOFs for Efficient CO2 Reduction

The photocatalytic activity of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) is closely related to the components and structures of metal oxo clusters. In this article, a gradient modulation of metal oxo cluster components is achieved via tuning the molar ratio of Ni2+/Ti4+ in the Ni/Ti bimetallic MOFs. Ni/Ti bimetallic MOFs exhibit adjustable physicochemical properties and enhanced photocatalytic activity compared with Ti-MOF and Ni-MOF. The introduction of Ni with high electron affinity in titanium oxo clusters is responsible for the enhanced charge separation and transfer in Ni/Ti bimetallic MOFs. The extended tunability of components and structures of Ni/Ti bimetallic MOFs provides more opportunities for MOF-based materials design.