Polyoxometalate-based Cu(II) complexes as the photocatalyst for oxidation of toluene and photodegradation of metronidazole

Polyoxometalates (POMs), with powerful multi-electron transfer capability, have been applied as photocatalysts. The Cu&POM-based complex, composed of PMo₁₂ and 1,10-phenanthroline, has been constructed a supramolecular framework through hydrogen bonding and p-p interactions. The complex exhibits excellent photocatalytic performance in the oxidation of toluene and the photodegradation of metronidazole. The oxidation of toluene using Cu-PMo₁₂ was carried out with high yield and selectivity (100%) under low-energy conditions, and unprecedented results and outstanding stability were achieved in cycling tests. Photodegradation of metronidazole using Cu-PMo₁₂ showed a degradation rate of 0.178. This could aid in the design and synthesize of novel Cu&POM-based complex with excellent photocatalytic activities in the future.