Enhanced photothermal conversion in 3D stacked metal–organic framework nanosheets

Abstract

Incorporating metal nanoparticles (MNPs) in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) demonstrated great potential in the field of photo‐/photothermal‐catalysis. However, the oriented design and optimization of the 3D nano‐architectures of MOF substrates to achieve high‐efficiency light harvesting remains a challenge. Herein, guided on theoretical simulation, a facile etching strategy was employed to fabricate a 3D orderly‐stacked‐MOF‐nanosheet‐structure (CASFZU‐1) with a high electric field energy‐density‐distribution; well‐dispersed MNPs were afterwards encapsulated onto the MOF support. The unique nanosheet structure improved the light absorbance over the broadband spectrum, thereby enhancing the plasmonic photothermal effects of the MNPs@CASFZU‐1 composites. Based on the plasmon‐driven photothermal conversion, the MNPs@CASFZU‐1 composites exhibited approximately twofold catalytic efficiency in the hydrogenation reaction and a lower temperature for the full conversion of carbon monoxide, compared to their bulk‐type composites. The surface‐plasmon‐driven photothermal effects can be exploited in innovative MNPs@MOF platforms for various applications.