Versatile nZVI/ZIF/rGO Hybrids: Solar Cleanup, Li-Ion Batteries, and H ₂ Evolution

A nano zerovalent iron/zeolitic imidazolate framework/reduced graphene oxide (nZVI/ZIF/rGO) nanocomposite has been designed for hydrogen production, energy storage material, and water remediation agent. The trifunctional nZVI/ZIF/rGO nanocomposite was synthesized through a coprecipitation method. The morphologies were cubic, flake-like, and layered for ZIF, nZVI, and GO, respectively, as examined using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images. The nZVI/ZIF/rGO nanocomposite exhibited a higher dye degradation efficiency of ∼99% against methyl violet (MV) within 60 min. For the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), the nZVI/ZIF/rGO nanocomposite demonstrated a Tafel slope of 89 mV/dec and an overpotential of 118 mV cm–2 vs RHE. The nanocomposite anode displayed excellent long durable cycle stability at a current density of 1000 mA/g. Despite a less primary Coulombic efficiency due to SEI production, continuous cycling retained a steady reversible capacity of ∼237 mAh/g with ∼99.5% efficiency. Interestingly, the electrode maintained consistent electrochemical performance even after 1000 cycles with proven structural stability and enhanced catalytic efficiency.