MoS₂-loaded Zn-MOF composites: a high-performance hybrid for ultra-sensitive sensing and efficient dose reliant dye degradation

In this study, a Zn-based metal-organic framework (Zn-MOF), formulated as [Zn(Cei)]_n, was resynthesized using bis(2-carboxyethyl) isocyanurate (H₂Cei) as a ligand. To enhance its functional properties, a series of MoS₂-doped Zn-MOF composites (Zn-MOF@MoS₂-n, where <i>n</i> = 1–3) were synthesized at room temperature with varying stoichiometric ratios (1:1, 1:2, and 1:3). Structural characterization confirmed the successful incorporation of MoS₂ while preserving the crystallinity of Zn-MOF. Among the synthesized composites, Zn-MOF@MoS₂-2 exhibited superior performance in both photoluminescence sensing and photocatalytic degradation. The composite demonstrated high sensitivity toward Pb²⁺, Cr₂O₇²⁻, and Metsulfuron-methyl (MSFM) detection, with detection limits of 1.059 ppm, 1.029 ppm, and 1.105 ppm, respectively. Additionally, Zn-MOF@MoS₂-2 showcased remarkable photocatalytic activity for the degradation of Congo red (CR) dye, achieving a degradation efficiency of 94.36% under optimal conditions (30 mg/L CR, 20 mg/L catalyst, pH 7). The synergistic effect of MoS₂ incorporated contributed to enhanced charge separation and improved active site availability, making Zn-MOF@MoS₂-2 a highly promising candidate for environmental remediation and analytical applications. A Zn-MOF@MoS₂ composite was synthesized for sensing and photocatalysis. Zn-MOF@MoS₂-2 showed high sensitivity for Pb²⁺, Cr₂O₇²⁻, and MSFM and achieved 94.36% Congo red degradation, making it promising for remediation.