Controlling Synthesis of Metal Organic Framework Derived Zn/Co/Ni Oxide Nanocomposites for Applications

Metal-organic framework (MOF) has received much attention to prepare metal oxides, demonstrating many applications in sensing, catalysis and energy storage and conversion. Herein, a two-step procedure by a metal organic frameworks route was used fabricate ZnO dodecahedra, Co₃O₄ dodecahedra, ZnO/Co₃O₄ and Co₃O₄/NiO composites. The growth mechanisms for these unique structures are illustrated. As applications, ZnO dodecahedra perform remarkable sensitivity to ethanol in sensing experiments. The CO catalytic oxidation activity of Co₃O₄ dodecahedra is employed and showed decreased catalytic performance with the increased calcinations temperature. ZnO/Co₃O₄ composites show enhanced electrochemical performance and photocatalytic activities, which result from its unique porous structure, high specific surface area and the synergistic effect between ZnO and Co₃O₄. In addition, Co₃O₄/NiO composites show remarkable specific capacitance and excellent stability, superior to that of the pure Co₃O₄. Moreover, this MOF-driven method could be utilizable to prepare other metal oxide for various applications.