The
zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF)-67 microcrystal was employed
as a precursor to synthesize the hollow ZIF-8/ZIF-67 composite via the epitaxial growth of ZIF-8 on ZIF-67, in
situ self-sacrifice, and excavation of ZIF-67. The hollow
ZIF-8/ZIF-67 composite was successfully transformed to the ZnO–Co3O4/N–C cage by thermal treatment, which
was further used as the catalyst for the oxidative degradation of
bisphenol A (BPA) in the presence of potassium persulfate (PS). In
comparison with the Co3O4/N–C and Co3O4 obtained from pure ZIF-67 and cobalt nitrate,
the ZnO–Co3O4/N–C cage demonstrated
a more than four fold-higher activity and robust reusability. Based
on structural analysis, the enhanced catalytic performance could be
ascribed to the small, highly dispersed cobalt oxide particles, the
hollow structure that facilitated the transportation of the molecules,
and the synergistic effect between cobalt oxide and nitrogen-doped
carbon in the composite. Besides, the effect of dosage of PS, BPA,
and the co-existing components such as chloride ion, methanol, and t-butyl alcohol was carefully investigated to propose the
possible mechanism. This study would give new insights into the design
of functional composite materials from metal organic frameworks and
the development of their application in environmental pollution disposal.