Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance of a Tetraphenylethylene-Based Porous Aromatic Framework: Rational Design for Environmental Remediation

The design of high-performance and stable photocatalysts is a critical challenge in addressing environmental pollution and energy crises. In this study, we synthesized a novel porous aromatic framework (PAF-TPE) using tetraphenylethylene (TPE) as a monomer. By leveraging the rigid, planar conjugated structure of TPE, we effectively tuned the pore architecture and band structure of the resulting PAF material. Compared to PAF-45, synthesized using biphenyl as a monomer, PAF-TPE exhibited a larger pore size and a lower valence band position, facilitating enhanced charge separation and the generation of reactive oxygen species (^•OH and ^•O₂^–), thereby improving its photocatalytic efficiency. Experimental results demonstrated that PAF-TPE achieved complete degradation of rhodamine B and ofloxacin within 2 h. Moreover, it exhibited degradation efficiencies of 84.4% and 63.6% for the recalcitrant organic pollutants tetracycline and phenol, respectively. This work highlights the potential of rational monomer design in tuning the structural and electronic properties of PAF-based photocatalysts, paving the way for advanced materials in environmental remediation applications.