Novel CoNi-metal-organic framework crystal-derived CoNi@C: synthesis and effective cascade catalysis.

Evaluating the catalytic influence of metal sites on derivates obtained from the calcination of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) is very important for the rational construction of novel MOFs. Based on this catalytic functional guidance, two new Co-MOF and CoNi-MOF crystals were designed and synthesized, and further pyrolyzed to obtain corresponding porous carbon-based catalysts. Interestingly, the derivates exhibited 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 maintained excellent activity, even after 30 cycles, demonstrating its great longevity and durability, which are especially important for the practical application of metal catalysts in industrial catalysis.