Integration of MIL-101-NH2 into Cellulosic Foams for Efficient Cr(VI) Reduction under Visible Light

In this Article, a hybrid foam was fabricated through the integration of amine-functionalized Fe-MOF (MIL-101-NH2) into cellulosic matrix. The existence of enormous group linkages and ionic bonding interactions among the composite foam network leads to a uniform dispersion of MIL-101-NH2 and high affinity between the MOF and cellulose skeleton. As-prepared hybrid foams were utilized as photocatalysts to reduce toxic hexavalent chromium ions (Cr(VI)) under visible light. Optimal performance was observed over CM-1 (with a MIL-101-NH2 and nanocellulose mass ratio of 1:1). When compared to pure MOF nanoparticle counterparts, the CM-1 foam presented preferable and more efficient Cr(VI) removal performance. The reasons could be attributed to the hierarchal pore structure and uniform MOF loading. Moreover, the flexible foams could be easily separated from the solution and preserved more than 80% removal efficiency of Cr(VI) after 10 runs. This work would shed light on how to construct high-efficiency photocatalysts for environmental governance from sustainable materials.