Synthesis of core–shell SiO2@ZIF-71/Pd dielectric-based metal–organic framework for boosting CO2 reduction

Abstract

Efficient, low-cost catalysts for CO₂ conversion are vital to mitigating climate change. In this study, we report the design and synthesis of a Pd single-atom-anchored ZIF-71 integrated with a SiO₂ core–shell structure (SiO₂@ZIF-71/Pd) to enhance photocatalytic CO₂ reduction. The SiO₂ core enhances light harvesting via Mie scattering, which increases photon absorption, while the core–shell structure reduces charge transport distance and minimizes electron–hole recombination, facilitating efficient charge separation. Pd single atoms, embedded within the ZIF-71 framework, serve as highly active sites for CO₂ reduction, significantly improving catalytic efficiency. This hybrid catalyst achieved an impressive CO production rate of 50.5 μmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹ under AM 1.5 illumination, demonstrating its high performance under practical conditions. The results underscore the potential of SiO₂-based MOF composites with single-atom catalysts for efficient CO₂ conversion, contributing to advancements in sustainable energy solutions and the pursuit of carbon neutrality.