Self-propelled MOF nanomotors for dual-function capture and photocatalytic removal of organic contaminant in water

Self-propelled nanomotors have exhibited promising potential in biomedical and environmental applications owing to their advanced motion capabilities and nanoscale functionalities. However, the lack of straightforward methods for producing multifunctional nanomotors, particularly those capable of integrating pollutant capture and catalytic degradation within a single unit, has limited their broader applications. Herein, we report a MOF525 based nanomotor for the dual-function capture and photocatalytic degradation of pollutants in aqueous solution. Cobalt-doping facilitates this metal-organic framework (MOF) material using H2O2 as chemical fuel for self-propulsion even in a very low concentration (0.1 % H2O2). Additionally, Fe3O4 nanoparticles are incorporated to provide magnetic properties, facilitating the easy recovery of the nanomotors. The resulting nanomotor exhibits superior efficiency in the removal of malachite green (MG), achieving dual-function active adsorption and photocatalytic degradation. This work offers a novel insight to the development of multifunctional nanomotors with excellent performance in environmental remediation.