Rod-shaped copper-based metal-organic framework: An efficient UV-activated photocatalyst for Congo Red degradation

Amid growing concerns over industrial dye pollution, a new engineered rod-shaped copper-based metal-organic framework (Cu-MOF) offers a promising solution for efficient wastewater treatment. Synthesized through self-assembly method, this Cu-MOF was characterized using FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, XRD, FESEM, EDX, and TGA to establish its structural and thermal integrity. Electrochemical analysis showed its promising redox behaviour. Cu-MOF distinguishes itself through its remarkable efficiency in degrading Congo Red (CR), a well-known industrial dye pollutant. With a narrow band gap of 2.36 eV, as revealed by UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), the Cu-MOF harnesses UV light efficiently, achieving a 93.5 % degradation rate. The photocatalytic activity was further enhanced by introducing hydrogen peroxide, which acts as a scavenger for charge carriers, curbing recombination losses. A detailed mechanism explaining the degradation process was proposed alongside kinetics studies and mass spectrometric analysis that unveiled the degradation products and suggested a degradation pathway. This study not only highlights the environmental potential of Cu-MOF but also paves the way for advanced materials in wastewater treatment applications.