LAUSR

Abstract CuxO/C composites were successfully prepared using Cu-MOFs as the template and precursor by a two-step calcination strategy. SEM and TEM observations indicated that the composites had a microstructural prototype of porous cubic frameworks with the attachment of graphitic nanosheets on the surfaces, where the co-existence of CuO and Cu2O nanoparticles were uniformly encapsulated. The Fenton-like activities of the CuxO/C composites were studied by the degradation of Rhodamine B. The sample calcinated firstly at 500 °C in N2 followed at 300 °C in air achieved the optimal catalytic properties. Approximate 90% contaminant could be degraded within 40 min and the performances was maintained stable after five cycling runs. The superior Fenton-like activities of as-prepared CuxO/C composites were attributed to the high specific surface area, good adsorption and enhanced electron transport of well crystallized microstructures.