Dual metal centers within a water-stable Co/Ni bimetallic metal-triazolate framework contribute to durable photocatalysis for water treatment

Bimetallic metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have been studied extensively in various fields, including photocatalytic and electrocatalytic applications. The enhanced catalytic activity is typically attributed to the synergistic effect of the two metals, often without further explanation. Here, we demonstrate a CoNi-bimetallic triazolate MOF with fixed metal occupancy within the MOF's secondary building unit. Due to the difference in electronegativity and so on, the charge redistribution between the two metal centers could be responsible for the enhanced photocatalytic activity. In addition, the metal(II)-triazolate MOFs we synthesized exhibit unique metal-N coordination and a strong bond between the metal center and triazole ring. Therefore, their crystal structure and high porosity are highly retained even after exposure to humid environments for several months or stirring in water for several days. Overall, the CoNi-bimetallic triazolate MOF combines the excellent water stability and high surface area of its two monometallic counterparts. It can be further tailored to yield the highest colloidal stability during photocatalytic water treatment. As a result, the dual metal centers within the bimetallic MOF, combined with boosted colloidal stability, demonstrate the highest reactive oxygen species generation and promising antibacterial performance compared to their Ni- or Co-based counterparts. These findings shed light on the future design of robust MOF-based photocatalysts, particularly bimetallic ones.