One-step controlled electrodeposition of iron-based binary metal organic nanocomposite

A cauliflower-shaped Fe/Fe-BTC nanocomposite was prepared by one-step controlled cathodic electrodeposition method. The obtained Fe-BTC nanoscale film was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared spectra (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and electrochemical measurements, indicating its morphology, structure and electrochemical activities varied with the applied cathodic potential. The electrodeposition process was investigated thoroughly and the electrosynthesis mechanism of the Fe/Fe-BTC nanocomposite was proposed. The Fe/Fe-BTC nanoscale film deposited at - 1.5 V exhibited the loosest morphology and best electrochemical activity, which showed the best application potential in electrocatalytic H2O2 reduction and adsorption of diethyl phthalate (DEP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). The iron-based binary metal organic materials were designable and could be applied in the field of electrocatalysis and extraction.