Chemical Research in Chinese Universities ›› 2022, Vol. 38 ›› Issue (2): 373-381.doi: 10.1007/s40242-022-2007-z

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Two-dimensional Covalent Organic Frameworks: Intrinsic Synergy Promoting Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution

LIU Shujing1, GUO Jia1,2   

  1. 1. State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, P. R. China;
    2. Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymers Design and Application, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
  • Received:2022-01-03 Revised:2022-02-08 Online:2022-04-01 Published:2022-02-17
  • Contact: GUO Jia E-mail:guojia@fudan.edu.cn
  • Supported by:
    This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No. 51973039).

Abstract: Covalent organic frameworks(COFs) are emerging photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution in water splitting in recent years. They offer a pre-designable platform to design tailor-made structures and chemically adjustable functionality in terms of photocatalysis. In this review, we summarize the recent striking progress of COF-based photocatalysts in design and synthesis. Firstly, different approaches to functionalizing building blocks, diversifying linkages, extending π-conjugation and establishing D-A conjugation are illustrated for enhancing photocatalytic activity. Next, post-modification of backbones and pores is detailed for emphasizing the synergistic catalytic uniqueness of COFs. Besides, the strategy of preparing COF-related composites with various semiconductors is outlined for optimizing the electronic properties. Finally, we conclude with the current challenges and promising opportunities for the exploration of new COF-based photocatalysts.

Key words: Covalent organic framework, Photocatalysis, Hydrogen evolution, Charge separation