A novel CoNi-metal-organic framework crystal derived CoNi@C: synthesis and effective cascade catalysis

Evaluating the catalytic influence of metal sites on the derivates obtained from calcination of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) is very important for rational construction of novel MOFs. Based on this catalytic functional guidance, two new Co-MOF and CoNi-MOF crystals have been designedly synthesized and further pyrolyzed to obtain corresponding porous carbon-based catalysts. Interestingly, the derivates exhibit better catalytic performance toward the tandem reaction of dehydrogenation of NH3BH3 and subsequent hydrogenation reduction of nitro/olefin compounds than those of the CoNi-ZIF (a star MOF) derived CoNi@carbon and most metal catalysts. Significantly, the CoNi@C maintains excellent activity even after 30 cycles, demonstrating its great longevity and durability. This is especially important for practical application of metal catalysts in industry catalysis.