Application of QD-MOF composites for photocatalysis: Energy production and environmental remediation.

• Synthesis methods, structures and properties of QD-MOF composites. • Progress of QD-MOF composites in environmental remediation and energy production. • Detailed photocatalytic mechanism of QD-MOF composites. • The presents challenges of QD-MOF composites and the prospects for their future development. Photocatalysis is an efficient technology for energy production and environmental remediation. The composites of metal organic frameworks (MOFs) combined with quantum dots (QDs) allow high photocatalytic ability. Recently, these composites have been applied increasingly in the fields of energy production and environmental remediation. Even so, QD-MOF composites still have some shortcomings in the field of photocatalysis. In this review, the synthesis methods and structures as well as the applications of QD-MOF composites in water splitting for hydrogen production, carbon dioxide (CO 2) reduction to produce methane (CH 4), organic dye degradation, Cr(VI) reduction, and nitric oxide (NO) oxidation are discussed. The mechanisms of these processes are also described in detail. Finally, new insights into the future development and challenges of the composite are proposed to advance further development of the research area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]