Multi‐Nodal Cobalt‐Based MOF as a Photocatalyst for Efficient Antibiotic Degradation in Aqueous Environments

ABSTRACT A new metal–organic framework (MOF) {[NH 2 (CH 3 ) 2 ][Co 5 (BTC) 3 (OAC) 2 (DMA) 2 ] n ·1.25DMA·2.25H 2 O} ( 1 ), has been synthesized and characterized. The thermal stability, optical properties and photocatalytic activity of 1 were also evaluated. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed stable thermal behaviour up to 172°C, while UV–visible spectroscopy indicated an optical band gap of 1.6 eV, suggesting semiconducting properties. Photocatalytic tests demonstrated efficient degradation of antibiotic pollutants under UV light, with optimal performance in degrading Ornidazole (ODZ) at 40 ppm and 5 mg/L photocatalyst dosage, achieving a degradation efficiency of 83.69%. Reusability tests showed stable photocatalytic performance over multiple cycles. Additionally, the photocatalytic activity of 1 was assessed in different water mediums, and its performance was affected by the presence of common inorganic anions, highlighting its potential for environmental remediation applications.