A Bimetallic Covalent Organic Framework Photonic Synaptic Electrocatalysts

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Photonic synaptic electrocatalysts offer history-dependent performance modulation for applications like intermittent solar energy.
• Existing photo-assisted electrocatalysts are typically stateless, losing enhanced activity once illumination ceases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a photonic synaptic electrocatalyst with a writable and retainable catalytic state.
• To investigate the potential of bimetallic covalent organic frameworks (COFs) for synaptic electrocatalysis.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a bimetallic covalent organic framework (Co-Ni─COF).
• Electrochemical characterization under optical stimulation to assess photonic synaptic behavior.
• Mechanistic studies involving electronic structure and intermediate analysis.

Main Results:

• The Co-Ni─COF demonstrated robust photonic synaptic behavior, including excitatory postsynaptic currents and tunable plasticity.
• The material exhibited learning-forgetting-relearning dynamics and long-term memory retention of catalytic states.
• Enhanced catalytic activity was preserved for hours in the dark, remaining ~127% higher after 3 hours.

Conclusions:

• The Co-Ni─COF serves as an effective photonic synaptic electrocatalyst with light-written and retained catalytic states.
• Strengthened electronic coupling and accumulation of active species underpin the observed memory effects.
• The catalyst's persistent activity highlights its promise for efficient energy conversion under intermittent light.