The role of iron-based metal-organic frameworks in carbon dioxide photoconversion processes

Abstract

This paper presents data on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with a detailed description of compounds belonging to the group of iron-based metal-organic frameworks (Fe-MOFs). The characteristics of the materials’ structure and the resulting specific properties of Fe-MOFs are presented. The techniques of preparation of the described compounds are also discussed, including the division into conventional and unconventional methods. The following chapters present the techniques used in the process of physicochemical characterization of these chemical materials, including X-ray diffractometry, Fourier-transform spectroscopy in infrared, Scanning Electron Microscopy and others. In the final part of this paper, the concept of photoreduction of carbon dioxide to more valuable products such as formic acid, methane or methanol is presented. This process is described as an innovative solution to one of the most important problems of civilization: the critical emission of greenhouse gases, especially CO₂, resulting in global warming. The potential benefits of using iron-based metal-organic frameworks as photocatalysts, on whose surface conversion of adsorbed carbon dioxide can occur under the influence of ultraviolet or visible radiation, are summarized.