Development of a Zinc-Based Metal-Organic Framework for Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B Dye

Abstract

In this study, we report the synthesis of a zinc-based metal-organic framework (MOF) incorporating terephthalaldehyde as a linker, aimed at the efficient removal of Rhodamine B dye from aqueous solutions. The synthesized MOF, denoted as Zn-Tereph-MOF, was prepared via a solvothermal method, which involved the reaction of zinc nitrate hexahydrate with terephthalaldehyde in a mixed solvent system. Characterization of Zn-Tereph-MOF was performed using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results confirmed the successful formation of the porous framework structure. Photocatalytic studies revealed that Zn-Tereph-MOF exhibits a remarkable capacity for Rhodamine B uptake, attributed to the synergy between the high surface area, favorable pore size, and the interaction between the dye molecules and the framework. These findings highlight the potential of Zn-Tereph-MOF as an effective adsorbent for the removal of organic dyes from wastewater, contributing to environmental remediation efforts.