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Embedding Ultrasmall Au Clusters into the Pores of a Covalent Organic Framework for Enhanced Photostability and Photocatalytic Performance
Author(s) -
Deng Yang,
Zhang Zhen,
Du Peiyao,
Ning Xingming,
Wang Yue,
Zhang Dongxu,
Liu Jia,
Zhang Shouting,
Lu Xiaoquan
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
angewandte chemie
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1521-3757
pISSN - 0044-8249
DOI - 10.1002/ange.201916154
Subject(s) - nanoclusters , covalent organic framework , covalent bond , photocatalysis , nucleation , materials science , nanotechnology , chemical engineering , chemical physics , catalysis , chemistry , organic chemistry , engineering
Gold clusters loaded on various supports have been widely used in the fields of energy and biology. However, the poor photostability of Au clusters on support interfaces under prolonged illumination usually results in loss of catalytic performance. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with periodic and ultrasmall pore structures are ideal supports for dispersing and stabilizing Au clusters, although it is difficult to encapsulate Au clusters in the ultrasmall pores. In this study, a two‐dimensional (2D) COF modified with thiol chains in its pores was prepared. With −SH groups as nucleation sites, Au nanoclusters (NCs) could grow in situ within the COF. The ultrasmall pores of the COF and the strong S−Au binding energy combine to improve the dispersibility of Au NCs under prolonged light illumination. Interestingly, Au–S–COF bridging as observed in this artificial Z‐scheme photocatalytic system is deemed to be an ideal means to increase charge‐separation efficiency.