Catalytic activity of MOF derived CuFe@C catalysts for catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol

The fabrication of porous carbon-based materials from metal organic frameworks have been found useful and efficient route in catalytic applications. The active and reusable Cu@C and CuFe@C bimetallic catalysts were prepared by direct carbonization of HKUST-1 and Fe-doped HKUST-1 and tested for the catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP). Through various characterization techniques (XRD, SEM, TGA, N2 adsorption, XPS and FTIR), doping of Fe into the composite structure was confirmed. The results demonstrate that Cu0.8Fe0.2@C exhibited enhanced catalytic activity than Cu@C. Cu0.8Fe0.2@C completed the 4-NP reduction reaction in 60 s using NaBH4 as reducing agent. The recyclable, highly stable catalyst has the potential in conversion of harmful pollutants into useful substances.