Composite of MOF and chitin as an efficient catalyst for photodegradation of organic dyes

A novel composite has been fabricated by using MOF and chitin as a natural and biocompatible compound. To this purpose, MOF was synthesized by using 2-aminoterephthalic acid and iron (III) chloride hexahydrate and then reacted with Cl-functionalized chitin. The resulting composite was characterized and utilized as a catalyst for degradation of methylene blue both in dark condition and under visible light irradiation. The results indicated superior catalytic activity under visible light irradiation. Furthermore, study of the reaction variables, including basicity, dye concentration and catalyst loading showed that the highest catalytic activity was achieved at basic condition. It was also found that both initial dye concentration and catalyst loading can affect the catalytic activity. To disclose the merits of the composite compared to its individual components, kinetic studies of the photo-degradation process in the presence of the composite, chitin and MOF have been performed. The results confirmed superior activity the composite compared to its components. The study of the mechanism of the reaction using scavengers confirmed that the created holes (h+) are the most effective species in the process of photocatalytic degradation of MB. Notably, the catalyst was recyclable and could be used for degradation of other dyes.