Fast photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B over [Mo6Br8(N3)6]2− cluster units under sun light irradiation

The paper reports on the high photocatalytic activity of [Mo6Br8(N3)6]2− cluster units for the degradation of rhodamine B under UV, visible or sun light irradiation. Water soluble Na2[Mo6Br8(N3)6] inorganic compound built up from [Mo6Br8(N3)6]2− anionic cluster units associated with Na+ counter cations investigated in this work is prepared in high yield by the interaction of Mo6Br12 with sodium azide in methanol. The high photocatalytic performance of the molybdenum cluster is demonstrated under real solar light excitation, suggesting that the photocatalyst could be used in broad daylight hours. Furthermore, the cluster is still highly active after ten successive cycling runs under UV or visible light irradiation without any apparent loss of its efficiency.

Graphical abstract. Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights▸ Water soluble Na2[Mo6Br8(N3)6] was prepared by the reaction of Mo6Br12 with NaN3. ▸ The cluster absorbs efficiently UV and visible light (Eg = 2.08 eV). ▸ The photocatalytic activity of the cluster was studied under UV and visible light. ▸ The cluster shows a high performance for the photodegradation of RhB.