PROJET-PEPR : MOF composites for the overall CO₂ reduction through panchromatic photocatalysis (M/F)

Job Description

Missions

Develop new photocatalysts for CO2 reduction in aqueous media, by combining porous 'host' materials of the MOF (metal-organic framework) type, and functional host species (chromophores, molecular catalysts, metal nanoparticles, polyoxometalates). Here, we propose to develop new composite systems integrating carefully selected POMs, Zr-MOFs, and metallic NPs or immobilized species. These composite materials will be designed to exhibit high stability and to absorb a large portion of the solar spectrum, allowing efficient CO2RR using water as a sacrificial electron donor.
CO₂ is often regarded as a cost-free C1 feedstock, making its conversion into high value-added synthetic fuels particularly attractive. Consequently, various processes have been explored for its utilization, including the CO₂ reduction reaction (CO₂RR). Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs), especially those based on zirconium clusters and photoactive linkers, have emerged as promising catalysts for CO2RR under visible light irradiation, thanks to their stability and tunable porous structure. Recently, we showed that integrating polyoxometalates (POMs) - soluble molecular oxides based on high-valent metal centers - within the cavities of such MOFs allows to significantly improve their photocatalytic activities, by increasing the lifetime of the photogenerated holes. However, key limitations persist such as absorption restricted to a portion of the solar spectrum and reliance on expensive sacrificial electron (e.g. triethanolamine) in organic solvent. Notably, the combination of Zr-MOFs with optically active metallic nanoparticles (NPs) has led to composites showing interesting CO2RR activity, even in water. However, the synergic integration of POMs, NPs and MOFs for photocatalytic CO2RR in aqueous solution remains to be fully developed together with the extension of light harvesting to a wider portion of the visible spectrum.

Activity

The first phase of the project will focus on the synthesis of NP@POM@MOF composites. The molecular precursors and resulting materials will be synthesized and characterized using IR and UV-vis spectroscopy, XPS, BET, solid-state NMR, X-ray diffraction, EDX analysis, nitrogen adsorption isotherms, and ICP analyses available in the laboratory. Photocatalytic experiments under heterogeneous conditions will then be carried out in the laboratory to aim for new and efficient photocatalysis for CO2RR. In-depth mechanistic studies may also be conducted through well-established collaborations with the SOLEIL synchrotron (EXAFS or DRIFT). The main activities will be i) synthesis ii) characterization of solids iii) catalytic tests. The secondary activities will be: i) reporting, ii) teamwork with PhD or master's students.

Your Profil

Skills

A robust knowledge of (nano)material chemistry and of MOFs as well as a high level of motivation is required. An experience in photocatalysis would be appreciated. Candidates should also be autonomous and able to organize themselves quickly to manage the various aspects of their project (synthesis, characterization, photocatalytic properties).

Your Work Environment

LCPB has gained recognized expertise in the design of MOF-based photosystems, whereby MOFs are functionalized to be able to oxidize water or reduce CO2 when exposed to visible light. Various strategies have been explored using external photosensitizers, photosensitive constitutive linkers or the post-synthetic immobilization of species within MOFs allowing to design photocatalytic cat@MOFs.The researcher will have access to all the laboratory facilities and the gas detection platform following the catalytic tests. He or she will be involved in collective tasks and will participate in the regular seminars held in the laboratory.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

Between 3081 € and 4654 € monthly gross according to experience

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

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