Innovative pathways in Zn-based metal-organic frameworks: Synthesis, characterization, and photocatalytic efficiency for organic dye degradation

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising materials for photocatalytic applications, particularly in degrading organic dyes in wastewater. This review focuses on zinc-based MOFs (Zn-MOFs), emphasizing their synthesis, characterization, and photocatalytic mechanisms in pollutant degradation. A detailed examination of Zn-MOFs photocatalytic degradation mechanisms highlights critical steps, including light absorption, electron-hole pair formation, charge separation, and reactive radical generation, which collectively drive efficient pollutant breakdown. The unique structural and chemical properties of Zn-MOFs, such as their high surface area, tunable bandgap, and coordinated action of organic linkers and metal nodes, are explored in the context of their photocatalytic efficiency. Key synthetic methods–hydrothermal, solvothermal, and microwave-assisted techniques–are discussed alongside characterization approaches like X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, and UV–Vis spectroscopy, which elucidate the structural, surface, and optical properties of Zn-MOFs. Factors influencing photocatalytic performance, such as dye concentration, pH, photocatalyst dosage, and temperature, are analyzed to optimize their application. A comparative analysis with other MOFs underscores the strengths and limitations of Zn-MOFs, while the conclusion addresses current challenges and future directions, emphasizing their potential in sustainable water purification and environmental remediation.