Zn-MOF loading Cu2O cube to construct hierarchical solid cage to improve photocatalytic hydrogen evolution

A novel composite is constructed by loading ZIF-8 on Cu 2 O by in situ growth. By visible light driven semiconductor and π-π* conjugation effect of the metal–organic framework, the migration ability of photogenerated carriers is improved, and electrons are accumulated to participate in hydrogen ion reduction. The superior hydrogen evolution performance (981.8 μmol·g −1 ·h −1 ) and stability test indicate that the coupling of ZIF-8 and semiconductor Cu 2 O successfully improves the catalytic capacity of the material. Cu 2 O provides a place to stimulate activity for ZIF-8 with high specific surface area. The electron transfer mechanism in composites is studied by electrochemical and spectroscopy methods. This work also provides a new opportunity for the in-situ growth of metal–organic frame materials onto single-metal oxides.