In-situ formation of Ag₂O in metal-organic framework for light-driven upcycling of microplastics coupled with hydrogen production

The release of microplastics (MPs) into the environment has engendered considerable ecosystem and human health concerns. Herein, we propose light-driven photocatalytic upcycling of MPs using heterojunction photocatalysts. A novel synthesis method was developed through in-situ conversion of unstable metal sites on bimetallic metal-organic frameworks (MOF), resulting in nanometer-sized particles with semiconductor properties which are confined into the framework of MOFs to prevent agglomeration. These modified MOF can be used for photocatalytic conversion of MPs along with hydrogen (H₂) production. As a proof of concept, FeAg-MOF was selected as a precursor to fabricate Ag₂O/Fe-MOF photocatalysts. Light illumination induced the formation of Ag₂O with a particle size of ∼6 nm into MOF framework structure. The Ag₂O/Fe-MOF displays a broad solar light-harvesting range with exposed active sites. Furthermore, band-matching the Ag₂O/Fe-MOF heterojunction can enable the conversion of MPs into value-added chemicals, accompanied by H₂ production. The present work provides an insight into designing advanced heterojunction photocatalysts and converting MPs into value-added chemicals, coupled with clean energy production.