Design of a photocatalyst combining graphdiyne (g-CnH2n−2) nanosheets with a PVP-modified co-metal coordination polymer and its hydrogen-evolution performance

Abstract

Metal coordination polymers are organometallic frameworks in which a metal and an organic ligand are linked via a dative bond. The material in question exhibits ultra-high porosity, large specific surface area, and abundant active sites, which can be customised in terms of morphology, size, and electronic structure through rational design. Graphdiyne, a novel two-dimensional carbon allotrope, boasts structural stability and enhanced electrical conductivity due to its hybridization of sp² and sp carbons. A metal–organic framework of Co (MOF-67) was synthesized via hydrothermal synthesis. The introduction of polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) served as a structural regulator and surfactant to obtain a more active metal coordination polymer (Co-MCPS). PVP, in its dual role, significantly amplified the catalytic performance of metal coordinate polymers, as demonstrated in a number of experiments. The incorporation of GDY onto the surfaces of MOF-67 and Co-MCPS induced an electron-rich isolation layer, which could effectively sequester oxidation sites, thereby enhancing the rate of charge carrier separation and hydrogen precipitation evolution efficiency.