TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a method of splitting water, and more particularly, relates to a method of producing a nanocomposite for splitting water.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Hydrogen and oxygen are two essential gases for human life. Hydrogen is used in space exploration, global logistics, public transportation, power generation, etc. Oxygen is used for melting, refining and manufacturing of steel and other metals, manufacturing of chemicals by controlled oxidation, rocket propulsion, medical and biological life support, mining, manufacturing of stone, and glass products.

[0003] There are different sources for producing hydrogen which include fossil fuels, biomass, and water. Fossil fuels and biomass can be converted into hydrogen by thermochemical processes that use heat and chemical reactions to release hydrogen from fossil fuels and biomass. Water can be split into hydrogen and oxygen by electrolysis and thermolysis. The electrolysis method use electricity for splitting water. The thermolysis method use high temperature of more than 2000 °C for splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen. The electrolysis method and the thermolysis method require high energy for splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen which can limit their usage.

[0004] There are many methods and materials used for splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen. For example, Wang Yujing et al. presented a patent on “Colloid hydrogen production catalyst and preparation method thereof’ (CN108212173 A). Wang Yujing et al. synthesized Ru@Co/rGO nano-crystalline colloid material as a catalytic hydrogen production colloid material. Cao Aoneng et al. presented a patent on “Ternary Z-type visible light water- photocatalytic hydrogen making catalyst and preparation method” (CN104307536B B). Cao Aoneng et al. produced a catalyst using graphene as a matrix, which is loaded with nanometer tungsten trioxide in a linear structure and nanometer indium sulfide in a sheet structure at the same time. The prepared graphene/tungsten trioxide/indium sulfide ternary catalyst has good catalytic hydrogen making performance. However, the aforementioned methods suffer from low production and high price of final product. [0005] There is, therefore, a need for a non-hazardous, cheap, and high efficiency nanocomposite for splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen. There is further a need for a cost effective and fast method to produce a nanocomposite for splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen with high efficiency.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0006] This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of this patent, and is not intended to identify essential elements or key elements of the subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to determine the scope of the claimed implementations. The proper scope of this patent may be ascertained from the claims set forth below in view of the detailed description below and the drawings.

[0007] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a method for splitting water. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary method may include producing a nanocomposite for splitting water, forming a water-nanocomposite mixture by mixing water and an exemplary nanocomposite in a container while keeping a temperature of an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture at a range of 20 °C to 30 °C, heating an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture at a temperature in a range of 30 °C to 75 °C for a time period in a range of 4 hours to 6 hours, and applying a magnetic field to an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture with a power of an exemplary magnetic field in a range of 500 Gauss to 2500 Gauss for a time period in a range of 4 hours to 6 hours. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may include a plurality of reduced graphene oxide quantum dots (rGOQDs) with a weight percent to a total amount of an exemplary nanocomposite in a range of 45 wt. % to 52 wt. %, a plurality of copper metal-organic frameworks (Cu-MOFs) with a weight ratio to an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs in a range of 0.08:0.25 to 0.1:0.25 (Cu-MOF: rGOQDs), and a plurality of y-Fe2O3 particles with a weight ratio to an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs in a range of 0.15:0.25 to 0.2:0.25 (an exemplary plurality of y-Fe2O3 particles: an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs). In an exemplary embodiment, each respective rGOQD of an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs may include an average particle size of less than 38 nm. In an exemplary embodiment, each respective Cu- MOF of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs may include an average particle size in a range of 5 nm to 51 nm. In an exemplary embodiment, each respective y-Fe2O3 particle of an exemplary plurality of y-Fe2O3 particles may include an average particle size in a range of 5 nm to 51 nm. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of GOQDs and an exemplary plurality of y-Fe2O3 may be interacted on exemplary frameworks of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs. [0008] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a method for splitting water. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary method may include forming a water-nanocomposite mixture by mixing water and a nanocomposite in a container while keeping a temperature of an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture at a range of 20°C to 30°C. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may include a plurality of graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs) with a weight percent to a total amount of an exemplary nanocomposite in a range of 45 wt. % to 52 wt. %, a plurality of copper metalorganic frameworks (Cu-MOFs) with a weight ratio to an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in a range of 0.08:0.25 to 0.1:0.25 (Cu-MOF: GOQDs), and a plurality of y-Fe2O3 with a weight ratio to an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in a range of 0.15:0.25 to 0.2:0.25 (y-Fe2O3: GOQDs). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of GOQDs and an exemplary plurality of y-Fe2O3 may be interacted on exemplary frameworks of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs. In an exemplary embodiment, each respective rGOQD of an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs may include an average particle size of less than 38 nm. In an exemplary embodiment, each respective y-Fe2O3 particle of an exemplary plurality of y-Fe2O3 particles may include an average particle size in a range of 5 nm to 51 nm. In an exemplary embodiment, each respective Cu-MOF of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs may include an average particle size in a range of 5 nm to 51 nm.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary method may further include heating an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture at a temperature in a range of 30°C to 75°C. In an exemplary embodiment, heating an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may include heating an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture for a time period in a range of 4 hours to 6 hours.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary method may further include applying a magnetic field to an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary magnetic field may include a stirring magnetic field.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, applying an exemplary magnetic field to an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may include applying an exemplary magnetic field to an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture with a power of an exemplary magnetic field in a range of 500 Gauss to 2500 Gauss. [0012] In an exemplary embodiment, applying an exemplary magnetic field to an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may include applying an exemplary magnetic field to an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture for a time period in a range of 4 hours to 6 hours.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, forming an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may include adding an exemplary nanocomposite to water with a weight ratio in a range of 0.2:5 to 0.3:20 (an exemplary nanocomposite: water). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary water splitting may have a rate in a range of 0.01 mm ³ water per minute to 0.39 mm ³ water per minute.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary method may further include forming an exemplary nanocomposite. In an exemplary embodiment, forming an exemplary nanocomposite may include forming a mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs by mixing copper (II) chloride (CuCh), diethylenetriamine (DETA), and dimethylformamide (DMF) together at a temperature in a range of 70 °C to 153 °C, dispersing an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in DMF using an ultrasonic device, and forming a rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y- Fe2O3 mixture by mixing an exemplary dispersed GOQDs in DMF, an exemplary formed mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs, a FeCL2 solution in DMF, a FeCL3 solution in DMF, and a hydrazine hydrate solution together with a weight ratio of an exemplary dispersed GOQDs to an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs in a range of 0.25:0.08 to 0.25:0.1 (an exemplary plurality of GOQDs: an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs, a weight ratio of an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF to an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in a range of 0.25:0.25 to 0.3:0.25 (FeCL2: an exemplary plurality of GOQDs), a weight ratio of an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF to an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in a range of 0.5:0.25 to 0.6:0.25 (FeCL3: the plurality of GOQDs).

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, dispersing an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in DMF may include dispersing an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in DMF using an exemplary ultrasonic device for a time period in a range of 120 minutes to 150 minutes. In an exemplary embodiment, dispersing an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in DMF may include dispersing an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in DMF using an exemplary ultrasonic device with a power of an exemplary ultrasonic device in a range of 300 W to 350 W.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, forming an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 mixture may include mixing an exemplary dispersed GOQDs in DMF, an exemplary formed mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs in DMF, an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF, an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF together using an ultrasonic device for a time period in a range of 35 minutes to 40 minutes.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, forming an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 mixture may include mixing an exemplary dispersed GOQDs in DMF, an exemplary formed mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs, an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF, and an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF together using an ultrasonic device with a power of an exemplary ultrasonic device in a range of 300 W to 350 W.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary method may further include heating an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 mixture at a temperature in a range of 60 °C to 80 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, heating an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 mixture may include heating an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 mixture for a time period in a range of 12 hours to 15 hours.

[0019] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a method of producing a nanocomposite for water splitting. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary method may include forming a mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs by mixing copper (II) chloride (CuCh), diethylenetriamine (DETA), and dimethylformamide (DMF) together at a temperature in a range of 70 °C to 153 °C, dispersing an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in DMF using an ultrasonic device with a concentration of an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in DMF in a range of 0.001 g.mL ¹ to O.OOO83 g.mL ¹ , and forming a rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/ y-Fe2O3 mixture by mixing an exemplary dispersed GOQDs in DMF, an exemplary formed mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs, a FeCL2 solution in DMF, a FeCE solution in DMF, and a hydrazine hydrate solution together with a weight ratio of an exemplary dispersed GOQDs to an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs in a range of 0.25:0.08 to 0.25:0.1 (an exemplary plurality of GOQDs: an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs), a weight ratio of an exemplary dispersed GOQDs to an exemplary plurality of y-Fe2O3 in a range of 0.15:0.25 to 0.2:0.25 (an exemplary plurality of y-Fe2O3: an exemplary plurality of GOQDs), a weight ratio of an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF to an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in a range of 0.25:0.25 to 0.3:0.25 (FeCL2: an exemplary plurality of GOQDs), a weight ratio of an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF to an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in a range of 0.5:0.25 to 0.6:0.25 (FeCL3: an exemplary plurality of GOQDs). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs may include CuChto DETA with a weight ratio in a range of 0.067:0.051 to 0.067:0.053 (CuCh: DETA). [0020] In an exemplary embodiment, mixing CuCh, DETA, and DMF together may include mixing CuCh, DETA, and DMF together using a mixer with a stirring speed in a range of 400 rpm to 500 rpm. In an exemplary embodiment, mixing CuCh, DETA, and DMF together may include mixing CuCh, DETA, and DMF together for a time period in a range of 12 hours to 15 hours.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, forming an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 mixture may include mixing exemplary dispersed GOQDs in DMF, an exemplary formed mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs, an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF, and an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF together using an ultrasonic device with an ultrasonic power in a range of 300 W to 350 W.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, forming an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 mixture may include mixing exemplary dispersed GOQDs in DMF, an exemplary formed mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs in DMF, an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF, an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF together using an ultrasonic device for a time period in a range of 35 minutes to 40 minutes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The drawing figures depict one or more implementations in accord with the present teachings, by way of example only, not by way of limitation. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements.

[0024] FIG. 1A illustrates a flowchart of a method of splitting water, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. IB illustrates a flowchart of a method of producing a nanocomposite for splitting water, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates a UV-visible spectroscopy image of graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs), consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 3 illustrates a photoluminescence image of GOQDs, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 4 illustrates a high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) image of GOQDs, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 5 illustrates a magnified HRTEM image of GOQDs, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; [0030] FIG. 6 illustrates an X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) pattern of GOQDs, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 7 illustrates thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) diagram of GOQDs, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 8 illustrates a Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) pattern of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 9 illustrate a XRD pattern of rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 10 illustrates patterns of TGA and differential thermal analysis (DTA) of synthesized rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 11 illustrates a gas chromatography (GC) pattern for GOQDs after 30 minutes of collecting gases, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; [0036] FIG. 12 illustrates a GC pattern for rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 after 30 minutes of collecting gases, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0037] FIG. 13 illustrates a GC pattern for GOQDs after 10 minutes of collecting gases, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0039] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of examples in order to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings. However, it should be apparent that the present teachings may be practiced without such details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures, components, and/or circuitry have been described at a relatively high-level, without detail, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present teachings.

[0040] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present disclosure, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following discussion. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of examples in order to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings. However, it should be apparent that the present teachings may be practiced without such details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures, components, and/or circuitry have been described at a relatively high- level, without detail, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present teachings. The following detailed description is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use the methods and devices disclosed in exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature is set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are not required to practice the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of specific exemplary embodiments are provided only as representative examples. Various modifications to the exemplary implementations will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations and applications without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown, but is to be accorded the widest possible scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0041] The present disclosure is directed to exemplary embodiments of a method for splitting water using a nanocomposite and a method to produce an exemplary nanocomposite. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may split water at a temperature in a range of 20 °C to 80 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may split water into hydrogen and oxygen gases. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may include a plurality of reduced graphene oxide quantum dots (rGOQDs), a plurality of copper metal-organic frameworks (Cu-MOFs), and a plurality of y-Fe2O3 particles. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may include an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs with a weight percent to a total amount of an exemplary nanocomposite in a range of 45 wt. % to 52 wt. %. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may include an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs with a weight ratio to an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs in a range of 0.08:0.25 to 0.1:0.25 (Cu-MOFs: rGOQDs). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may include an exemplary plurality of y-Fe2O3 particles with a weight ratio to an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs in a range of 0.15:0.25 to 0.2:0.25 (y-Fe2O3 particles: rGOQDs). In an exemplary embodiment, each respective rGOQD of an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs may include an average particle size of less than 38 nm. In an exemplary embodiment, each respective y-Fe2O3 particle of an exemplary plurality of y- Fe2O3 particles may include an average particle size in a range of 5 nm to 51 nm.

[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary Cu-MOF may have a framework of copper which may be coordinated with organic ligands. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary organic ligands may include diethylenetriamine (DETA). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary Cu-MOF may have a two dimensional or a three dimensional structure. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary organic ligands may form chemical connections with copper ions. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary chemical connections may include coordinate covalent bonds. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of y-Fe2O3 particles and an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs may be interacted on exemplary frameworks of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of y-Fe2O3 particles and an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs may form at least one of chemical connections, physical connections, and combinations thereof to exemplary frameworks of an exemplary plurality Cu-MOFs. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs may form connections with copper in an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of y-Fe2O3 particles may form connections with nitrogen atoms in an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary connection may include at least one of a chemical reaction, a physical reaction, and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, each respective Cu-MOF of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs may include an average particle size in a range of 5 nm to 51 nm.

[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, splitting water may include forming a water- nanocomposite mixture. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may include water and an exemplary nanocomposite with a weight ratio of water to an exemplary nanocomposite in a range of 5:0.2 to 20:0.3 (water: an exemplary nanocomposite). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may function for a time period of maximum 6 hours. In an exemplary embodiment, water- splitting rate of an exemplary nanocomposite may be in a range of 0.01 mm ³ water per minute to 0.39 mm ³ water per minute. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary rate of water splitting may rise when a temperature of an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture increases. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may split water at a temperature in a range of 20 °C to 80 °C.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may split water using a plurality of electrochemical systems. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs may be responsible for creating an exemplary plurality of electrochemical systems in an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/yFe2O3 nanocomposite. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of yFe2O3 particles and an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs may be used to increase stability of an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs. In an exemplary embodiment, oxygen (O2) in atmosphere may act as a cathode and each of an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs may act as an anode. In an exemplary embodiment, an electrochemical system may form between each oxygen molecule and an exemplary rGOQD. In an exemplary embodiment, for each electrochemical system, O2 may be absorbed on an exemplary rGOQD. In an exemplary embodiment, O2 may be absorbed on an exemplary rGOQD due to OH and COOH groups on an exemplary rGOQD surface. In an exemplary embodiment, structural defects on an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs may enhance O2 absorption on an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs. In an exemplary embodiment, O2 absorption on an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs may change electron density between O2 and an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/yFe2O3 nanocomposite may have more stability than an exemplary plurality of GOQDs. In an exemplary embedment, cathode and anode chemical reactions between O2 and an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs in an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/yFe2O3 nanocomposite may be illustrated below:

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary rGOQDs may have an inherent electrical current. In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of electrons may transfer on an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs surface. In an exemplary embodiment, oxygen in atmosphere may absorb free electron of an exemplary rGOQDs. In an exemplary embodiment, OH’ may form on an exemplary rGOQDs surface due to absorption of exemplary electrons by exemplary oxygen molecules.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary water splitting process may be performed at a pH in a range of 7 to 7.5. In an exemplary embodiment, after splitting water using an exemplary nanocomposite, pH of an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may increase. In an exemplary embodiment, increasing pH of an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may be due to increasing OH’ concentration in an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture. In an exemplary embodiment, splitting water may include hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In an exemplary embodiment, HER and OER reactions may be according to following equations:

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, according to equation 3, water may absorb an exemplary plurality of electrons. In an exemplary embodiment, hydrogen may be produced when water may absorb an exemplary plurality of electrons. In an exemplary embodiment, hydrogen and OH’ may be produced due to absorption of exemplary electrons by water. In an exemplary embodiment, four groups of OH’ may form oxygen (O2).

[0048] FIG. 1A illustrates a flowchart of a method 100 of splitting water, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, method 100 may include a step 101 of producing a nanocomposite , a step 102 of forming a water-nanocomposite mixture, a step 103 of heating the water-nanocomposite mixture at a temperature in a range of 30 °C to 75 °C, and a step 104 of applying a magnetic field to the water-nanocomposite mixture.

[0049] In further detail with respect to step 101 of producing a nanocomposite may be illustrated in FIG. IB. In further detail with respect to step 102, step 102 of forming a water- nanocomposite mixture may include adding water and an exemplary nanocomposite into a container. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may be added to water with a weight ratio in a range of 0.2:5 to 0.3:20 (nanocomposite: water). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may have a temperature in a range of 20 °C to 60 °C. In another exemplary embodiment, an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may have a temperature in a range of 20 °C to 30 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary water may be at least one of a distilled water, a deionized water, and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may have a temperature in a range of 30 °C to 75 °C.

[0050] In further detail with respect to step 103 of heating the water-nanocomposite mixture may include heating an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture to a temperature in a range of 30 °C to 75 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may be heated for a time period in a range of 4 hours to 6 hours. In an exemplary embodiment, increasing an exemplary temperature of an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may enhance water splitting rate of an exemplary nanocomposite. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary nanocomposite may split water with a rate in a range of 0.01 mm ³ water per minute to 0.39 mm ³ water per minute.

[0051] In exemplary embodiment, method 100 of water splitting may further include a step 106 of applying a magnetic field to an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture as illustrated in FIG. 1A. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary method of water splitting may further include a step 106 of applying a magnetic field to an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture (FIG. 1A). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary magnetic field may be a stirring magnetic field. In exemplary embodiment, an exemplary stirring magnetic field may be applied to an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary stirring magnetic field may include a magnetic power in a range of 500 Gauss to 2500 Gauss. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary stirring magnetic field may be applied to an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture for a time period in a range of 4 hours to 6 hours.

[0052] FIG. IB illustrates a flowchart of a method 110 of producing a nanocomposite for splitting water, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, method 110 may include a step 112 of forming a mixture of the plurality of Cu-MOFs, a step 114 of dispersing a plurality of GOQDs in DMF, and a step 116 of forming an rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/ y-Fe2O3 mixture.

[0053] In further detail with respect to step 112, step 112 of forming a mixture of the plurality of Cu-MOFs may include mixing a copper chloride (CuCh) solution in dimethylformamide (DMF) with a diethylenetriamine (DETA) solution in DMF. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary CuCh solution and an exemplary DETA solution may be mixed together for a time period in a range of 12 hours to 15 hours. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary copper chloride solution and an exemplary DETA solution may be mixed together in a mixer with a stirring speed in a range of 400 rpm to 500 rpm. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs may include a weight ratio of an exemplary CuCh to an exemplary DETA in a range of 0.067:0.051 to 0.067:0.053 (CuCh: DETA). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary CuCh solution in DMF may have a concentration in a range of 0.0004 g.mL ¹ to 0.0003 g.mL ¹ . In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary DETA solution in DMF may have a concentration in a range of 0.005 g.mL ¹ to 0.003 g.mL ¹ .

[0054] In further detail with respect to step 114, step 114 of dispersing a plurality of GOQDs in DMF may include synthesizing an exemplary plurality of GOQDs. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of GOQDs may be synthesized by mixing graphite and a sulfuric acid solution. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary graphite, an exemplary sulfuric acid solution, and sodium nitrate (NaNO3) may be mixed at a temperature below 15 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary graphite, an exemplary sulfuric acid solution and NaNO3 may be mixed for a time period in a range of 4 hours to 4.5 hours. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary graphite, an exemplary sulfuric acid solution, NaNO3 may be mixed in a mixer with a stirring speed in a range of 400 rpm to 500 rpm. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary graphite may be mixed with an exemplary sulfuric acid solution with a weight ratio of an exemplary graphite to an exemplary sulfuric acid solution in a range of 0.5: 366 to 0.5: 458 (graphite: sulfuric acid solution). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may include an exemplary NaNO3 to an exemplary graphite with a weight ratio in a range of 3: 0.5 to 5: 0.5 (NaNO3: graphite). In an exemplary embodiment, potassium permanganate (KMnO4) may be added into an exemplary mixture at a temperature below 15 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, after adding an exemplary KMnO4, a sulfuric acid solution may be added into an exemplary container. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be mixed for a time period in a range of 20 minutes to 30 minutes. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be mixed using a magnetic stirrer with a stirring speed in a range of 400 rpm to 500 rpm. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be mixed using an ultrasonic device for a time period in a range of 4 hours to 4.5 hours. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be mixed using an exemplary ultrasonic device at a temperature in a range of 15 °C to 60 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be mixed using an exemplary ultrasonic device with a power of an exemplary ultrasonic device in a range of 300 W to 350 W. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be mixed for a time period in a range of 20 minutes to 60 minutes using a mixer until color of an exemplary mixture may turn to a brownish purple. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be heated at a temperature in a range of 60 °C to 70 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, hydrogen peroxide and water may be added into an exemplary container. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary water may have a temperature below 15 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary water may have a temperature in a range of 0 °C to 5 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be mixed for a time period in a range of 15 minutes to 20 minutes. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be mixed using a mixer with a stirring speed in a range of 250 rpm to 300 rpm. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be heated at a temperature in a range of 60 °C to 80 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may include hydrogen peroxide with a weight ratio to graphite in a range of 44: 0.5 to 66: 0.5 (hydrogen peroxide: graphite). In an exemplary embodiment an exemplary mixture may be centrifuged for a time period in a range of 3 minutes to 6 minutes. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be centrifuged with a stirring speed in a range of 10000 rpm to 11000 rpm. In an exemplary embodiment, precipitate of an exemplary mixture may be collected. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary precipitate may be washed with a hydrochloric acid solution, water, and ethanol. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary precipitant may be mixed with water. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary precipitant may be separated from water using a centrifuge device. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary precipitant may be mixed with ethanol. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary precipitant may be separated from ethanol using a centrifuge device. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary precipitant may be washed with water to reach a pH of 7. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary hydrochloric solution may have a concentration in a range of 0.04 g.mL ¹ to 0.05 g.mL ¹ . In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be dried at a temperature in a range of 40 °C to 45 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may be heated for a time period in a range of 24 hours to 30 hours. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of GOQDs may be mixed with DMF. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of GOQDs may be mixed in DMF using an ultrasonic device with a power of an exemplary ultrasonic device in a range of 300 W to 350 W. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of GOQDs may be dispersed in DMF for a time period in a range of 120 minutes to 150 minutes. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary dispersion of an exemplary plurality of GOQDs in DMF may have a concentration in a range of 0.001 g.mL ¹ to O.OOO83 g.mL ¹ .

[0055] In further detail with respect to step 116, step 116 of forming an rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/ y- Fe2O3 mixture may include adding an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs in DMF, a FeCL2 solution in DMF, and a FeCL3 solution in DMF to an exemplary plurality of GOQDs dispersed in DMF while mixing an exemplary plurality of GOQDs with DMF using an ultrasonic device. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOF, an exemplary plurality of GOQDs, an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF, and an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF may be mixed using an exemplary ultrasonic device for a time period in a range of 35 minutes to 40 minutes. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu- MOFs in DMF, an exemplary plurality of GOQDs, an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF, and an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF may be mixed using an exemplary ultrasonic device with a power of an exemplary ultrasonic device in a range of 300 W to 350 W. In an exemplary embodiment, while the reaction mixture is located on a heater stirrer a hydrazine hydrate solution may be added into an exemplary mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOFs in DMF, an exemplary plurality of GOQDs, an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF, and an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary hydrazine hydrate solution may be used to reduce an exemplary plurality of GOQDs. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary hydrazine hydrate solution may be used for synthesizing y-Fe2O3. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary hydrazine hydrate solution may produce ammonium hydroxide NFU(OH) solution according to equation 6 and equation 7. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary ammonium hydroxide may be used for synthesizing iron oxide form iron chloride. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture may have a pH in a range of 8 to 8.2. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOF, an exemplary plurality of GOQDs, an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF, an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF, and an exemplary hydrazine hydrate solution may be mixed with a stirring speed in a range of 400 rpm to 500 rpm. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture of an exemplary plurality of Cu-MOF, an exemplary plurality of GOQDs, an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF, an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF, and an exemplary hydrazine hydrate solution may be mixed for a time period in a range of 12 hours to 15 hours. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture of an exemplary formed Cu- MOF dispersion, an exemplary dispersion of GOQDs, an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF, an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF, and an exemplary hydrazine hydrate solution may be heated at a temperature in a range of 60 °C to 80 °C. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary dispersion of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite in DMF may be centrifuged to separate an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite from DMF. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite may be washed with water. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite may be mixed with water. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite and water may be centrifuged using a centrifuge device with a stirring speed in a range of 8000 rpm to 10000 rpm. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mixture of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite and water may be centrifuged for a time period in a range of 4 minutes to 5 minutes. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary dispersion of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu- MOF/ y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite in DMF may be centrifuged with a stirring speed in a range of 8000 rpm to 10000 rpm. In an exemplary embedment, an exemplary dispersion of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/ y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite in DMF may be centrifuged for a time period in a range of 4 minutes to 5 minutes. In an exemplary embedment, an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu- MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite may be dried at a temperature in a range of 40 °C to 50 °C. In an exemplary embedment, an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite may be heated for a time period in a range of 20 hours to 24 hours.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, for synthesizing an exemplary y-Fe2O3 portion of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite, a chemical reaction between FeCL3 solution in DMF, FeCL2 solution in DMF, and an exemplary NH4(OH) solution may occur. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary FeCL3 solution in DMF, an exemplary FeCL2 solution in DMF, and an exemplary NH4(OH) solution may form a reaction mixture. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary hydrazine hydrate solution may be used as a precursor for producing NH4(OH) solution. In an exemplary embodiment, decomposition of an exemplary hydrazine hydrate may increase pH of an exemplary reaction mixture. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary pH of an exemplary reaction mixture may be increased to maximum 11 which may be due to production of NH4(0H). In an exemplary embodiment, decomposition of an exemplary hydrazine hydrate may be illustrated using following equations:

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, nitrogen produced from equations 5 and 6 may reduce to NH3 due to inherent electrochemical and electrocatalytic characteristics of an exemplary GOQDs and/or rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary electrochemical and electrocatalytic characteristics of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu- MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite may provide electrons and protons required for splitting water. In an exemplary embodiment, water may be split into oxygen according to following equations:

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, hydroxyl groups produced according to equation 3 and equation 7 may be used to produce oxygen (equation 8). In an exemplary embodiment, electrons produced from equation 8 may reduce nitrogen produced according to equation 6. In an exemplary embodiment, reducing nitrogen may produce ammonia (NH3). In an exemplary embodiment, according to equation 10, 6 molecules of water and nitrogen may exchange electrons to produce oxygen and NH3. In an exemplary embodiment, in addition to splitting water using free electrons on rGOQDs surface, an exemplary hydrazine hydrate may further be used to split water into oxygen. In an exemplary embodiment, nitrogen produced from an exemplary hydrazine hydrate may also have a synergistic effect on splitting water.

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite may further be used to produce ammonia using an exemplary hydrazine hydrate solution. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary hydrazine hydrate may eliminate disturbing functional groups on a surface of an exemplary plurality of GOQDs. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary hydrazine hydrate may reduce an exemplary plurality of GOQDs. In an exemplary embodiment, electron flow on a surface of rGOQDs may increase. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary plurality of rGOQDs may provide an electric current required for splitting water.

[0060] In an exemplary embodiment, rGOQDs in an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite may be used as a catalyst for splitting water. In an exemplary embodiment, GOQDs may have more splitting activity than rGOQDs due to functional groups on an exemplary surface of GOQDs. In an exemplary embodiment, GOQDs may interact with hydrogen produced from an exemplary water splitting process. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary GOQDs may receive electrons from hydrogen. In an exemplary embodiment, GOQDs may be reduced after a time period of maximum 1 hour. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite may be more stable than an exemplary GOQDs. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite may retain water splitting functionality for a time period of maximum 6 hours. [0061] In an exemplary embodiment, heating an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture may enhance electrical current of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite. In an exemplary embodiment, heating an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite may enhance electron movements. In an exemplary embodiment, increasing an exemplary electrical current may enhance water splitting efficiency of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite. In an exemplary endowment, an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite may be heated at a temperature in a range of 30 °C to 75 °C.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, a magnetic field may be applied to an exemplary water- nanocomposite mixture. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary magnetic field may include a stirring magnetic field. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary stirring magnetic field may be applied to an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture for enhancing water splitting. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary stirring magnetic field may be applied to an exemplary water-nanocomposite mixture during an exemplary water splitting process. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary stirring magnetic field may help to enhance mixing of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite with water. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary y-Fe2O3 portion of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite may have magnetic properties. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary stirring magnetic field may move an exemplary plurality of y-Fe2O3 particles of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite. In an exemplary embodiment, mixing an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite with water may increase contacting surface of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite and water. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary stirring magnetic field may further enhance capacitance of rGOQDs. In an exemplary embodiment, increasing capacitance of rGOQDs may increase an exemplary electrical current of rGOQDs. In an exemplary embodiment, increasing an exemplary electrical current of rGOQDs may enhance water splitting rate. In an exemplary embodiment, increasing an exemplary electrical current of rGOQDs may increase free electrons for performing electrochemical reactions required for water splitting.

[0063] Example 1: Synthesizing GOQDs

[0064] For synthesizing of GOQDs, a method similar to method 110 may be used. For synthesizing GOQDs, 0.5 g graphite and 250 mL sulfuric acid solution were mixed together in a container. The container was placed in an ice bath. Then, 3 g NaNO3 was added to the mixture and was mixed for 1 hour. After mixing, 15 g Kmn04 was added slowly into the container while the container was placed in an ice bath. Then 150 mL sulfuric acid solution was added slowly into the container. The mixture was mixed for 20 minutes. Next, the mixture was mixed using an ultrasonic device for 4 hours The mixture was transferred into another container and 100 mL hydrogen peroxide and 300 mL icy deionized water were added into the mixture. Then, the mixture was washed using HC1 5%, water, and ethanol. For the final step, the mixture was dried at 40°C for 30 hours. FIG. 2 illustrates a UV-visible spectroscopy image 200 of GOQDs, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. The UV-visible pattern of GOQDs has two peaks around 200 nm to 300 nm. The two peaks were observed which related to p-p* (193 nm) and n-p* transitions (203 nm-215 nm). FIG. 3 illustrates a photoluminescence image 300 of GOQDs, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. GOQDs showed a sharp emission peak at 413.5 nm with excitation wavelength of 365 nm. FIG. 4 illustrates a high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) image 400 of GOQDs, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 illustrates a magnified HRTEM image 500 of GOQDs, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates an X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) pattern 600 of GOQDs, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. The XRD pattern of GOQDs shows the semi-crystalline nature of GOQDs. In XRD of pure graphite, there is a strong and sharp diffraction peak around 26.55°, which indicates the interlayer distance of 0.34 nm. But in the pattern of synthetic GOQDs, there is a broad diffraction peak at 11.78°, which indicates the interlayer distance of 0.83 nm. The increase in the distance between carbon sheets observed in synthesized GOQDs is in accordance with Bragg's law and is due to the interlayer existence of oxygenated functional groups and water molecules in the structure of carbon layers. The multiplicity of interlayer distances shows that different amounts of oxygenated functional groups have entered between the graphite layers and synthesized GOQDs. FIG. 7 illustrates thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) diagram 700 of GOQDs, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. The behavior of synthesized GOQDs against heat was studied using thermogravimetric analysis. GOQDs were heated from 30 °C to 700 °C under O2 flow. According to FIG. 7, several stages of GOQDs degradation can be observed at 30.1°C-8.146 °C (702), 146.8°C-224/0°C (704), and 224/0°C-700/4 °C (706) which can relate to removal of water absorbed in GOQDs, removal of oxygen groups, and oxidation of carbon, respectively. Exemplary stages of GOQDs degradation are related to 11.36 % mass change (702), 38.70 % mass change (704), and 40.83 % mass change (706), respectively.

[0065] Example 2: Synthesizing Cu-MOF

[0066] For synthesizing Cu-MOF, a method similar to method 110 may be used. For synthesizing Cu-MOF, 0.085 g (0.5 mmol) copper chloride was dissolved in DMF. 0.0515 g (0.5 mmol) of diethylenetriamine (DETA) was dissolved in 200 mF DMF. The two mixtures were mixed together at 153°C for 12 hours under reflux. The final product was used for preparing the nanocomposite without separation.

[0067] Example 3: Synthesizing rGOODs/Cu-MO/y-Fe2Os

[0068] For synthesizing rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3, a method similar to method 110 may be used. For synthesizing rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3, 0.25 g of synthesized GOQDs were dispersed in DMF using an ultrasonic device. During the ultrasonic process, Cu-MOF dispersed in DMF was added into the dispersion of GOQDs in DMF. At the same time, 0.3 g FeCL2 dissolved in 10 mL DMF, 0.6 g FeCL3 dispersed in 10 mL DMF were added into the mixture of GOQDs and Cu-MOF. The final mixture was mixed using an ultrasonic device for 40 minutes. Then, the container containing the mixture was placed on a magnetic stirrer equipped with heater and a hydrazine hydrate solution was added to the final mixture until the pH reached 8. The mixture was mixed at 80°C for 12 hours. The final magnetic product was separated using a centrifuge device. The product was washed with ethanol and water and was dried at 50°C for 24 hours. FIG. 8 illustrates a Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) pattern 800 of an exemplary rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. The absorption peaks observed at 3691.04-4000 cm ¹ can be related to O-H stretching vibrations and intermolecular hydrogen bonds. The peak located at 3431.79 cm ^-1 can be attributed to the -OH groups of water absorbed in the nanocomposite structure, and reduced hydroxyl groups of GOQDs. The peak at 2924.38 cm ^-1 indicates stretching vibrations of CH2 and the peak located at 2377.31 cm ^-1 is related to atmospheric CO2. The absorption peak at 1727.42 cm ^-1 is related to C=0 stretching vibrations of reduced graphene oxide quantum dots (rGOQDs). The peak of 1550.91 cm-1 can be attributed to stretching vibrations and bending vibrations of -OH groups of absorbed water molecules and C=C stretching vibrations. In the region of 1460-600 cm ^-1 rGOQDs/Cu-MOF- y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite more peaks are observed compared to the FT-IR spectrum of GOQDs, which is due to the coordination of metal ions with oxygen atoms. The peak located at 1459.23 cm ^-1 can be related to N-H bonds. The absorption bond observed at 1377.91 cm ^-1 can be attributed to C-O-H deformation vibrations and the bond located at 1138.30 cm ^-1 can be related to C-N stretching vibrations of the ligand. The stretching vibrations of metal-0 groups appeared in the tetrahedral region (500-900 cm ^-1 ), but due to the limited detection range of the FT-IR device, no peak is observed, which indicates the existence of an octahedral structure due to coordination of metal ions. The small peak observed at 557.58 cm ^-1 indicates the presence of iron.

[0069] FIG. 9 illustrate a XRD pattern 900 of rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. The XRD pattern of the rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite mainly shows magnetite peaks with a slight shift. This pattern shows a semi-crystalline structure and the most important peaks are at 18.9°, 30.5°, 35.9°, 43.8°, 54.0°, 57.8°, 63.1°, 71.5° and 74.9°, which are related to Fe ₃ O ₄ peaks (JCPDS Card No. 0629-19). There is no peak for GOQDs in this pattern because the quantum dots of graphene oxide have been reduced during the deposition process of maghemite and Cu-MOF. A peak indicating the presence of copper complexes in the nanocomposite is not observed, which could be due to the low amount of copper in the nanocomposite or the amorphous nature of the copper complexes in the nanocomposite. Also, the amorphous pattern of rGOQDs can also be the reason for the unclear peaks related to copper complexes.

[0070] FIG. 10 illustrates patterns of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) image 1000 of synthesized rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. The thermal behavior of synthetic rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 was studied using simultaneous thermal analysis (DTG and TGA). Three different stages of weight loss were observed for rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 nanocomposite. However, it is clear that the nanocomposite is much more stable compared to GOQDs. Thermal stability of rGOQDs/Cu-MOF-y-Fe2O3 can be due to the presence of hydrogen bonds and Fe-O, Cu-O, and Fe-N coordination formed between Cu-MOF, rGOQDs, and y-Fe2O3. The weight loss around temperatures of 50 °C and 172 °C is related to the evaporation of water and DMF absorbed in the nanocomposite, respectively. Thermal analysis shows that maghemite was produced in the synthetic system and not magnetite. Because according to these thermal patterns, no exothermic process is observed along with the increase in weight, which indicates the oxidation of magnetite to maghemite. Therefore, during the thermal process, maghemite has been transformed into hematite.

[0071] Example 4: Water splitting using rGOODs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 and GOQDs

[0072] For water splitting, a method similar to method 100 was used. For analyzing water splitting efficiency of exemplary synthesized rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3, 20 mL water and 0.02 g of rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 were heated at 30°C. For analyzing water splitting efficiency of GOQDs, 20 mL water and 0.02 g GOQDs were heated at 30°C. Hydrogen and oxygen bubble were produced for both samples.

[0073] Example 5: Flame test for detecting pure hydrogen

[0074] For analyzing hydrogen production due to water splitting using exemplary fabricated rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3, gases produced from water splitting was transferred into a container using a tube. The gas was collected in the container which contained water. The gas was exposed to a flame. The flame was enhanced and the gas bubbles were disappeared. But no sound was heard which could not confirm hydrogen existence. This phenomenon was due to existence of hydrogen and oxygen at the same time.

[0075] Example 6: Confirming hydrogen production by depositing CuCh and NiCh on a spatula

[0076] For analyzing hydrogen production, a small amount of CuCh was exposed to the gas produced by water splitting. 5 mL of deionized water and 0.02 g of exemplary synthesized GOQDs were heated at 80°C. The hydrogen produced by water splitting deposited Cu as a layer with a color of copper on the spatula. A pH paper was also used for evaluating acidity of the liquid formed on the spatula. Results indicated that the liquid had acidic pH which confirmed the existence of HC1 and reduction of CuCl2. All the CuCh on the spatula was reduced after 20 minutes. The same process was tested for rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3. Results indicated that CuCh was reduced and deposited on the spatula. The rate of Cu deposition was enhanced when rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 was used. The same test was conducted using NiCh instead of CuCh. Results showed a black layer of Ni deposited on the spatula and when both of NiCh and CuCh were tested, a Ni-Cu layer was deposited on the spatula. The reaction of NiCh and CuCh reduction is illustrated below:

[0077] Example 7: Confirming hydrogen production by reducing benzaldehide in the presence of rGOODs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3

[0078] For analyzing hydrogen production, 0.02 g of exemplary synthesized rGOQDs/Cu- MOF/y-Fe2O3 was added to 10 mL of deionized water, and 0.02 g benzaldehide. The mixture was mixed for 12 hours under reflux. A thin layer chromatography (TLC) test was used for studying the sample. Pure benzyl alcohol and pure benzoic acid was added on a chromatography paper. Benzaldehide was 60 % converted to products and 20 % benzyl alcohol and 80 % benzoic acid. Therefore, production of hydrogen was confirmed using this technique. [0079] The process of reducing benzaldehide was performed under inert gas atmosphere of nitrogen. Results indicated that no reaction was conducted under inert gas atmosphere. Results showed that O2 has an important role for water splitting.

[0080] Example 8: Confirming hydrogen production by depositing CuCh and proving the role of oxygen for water splitting

[0081] For analyzing hydrogen production, 10 mL of deionized water, 0.02 g of exemplary synthesized rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3, and 0.01 g of CuCh were added into a container. One safety pin was also placed inside the container. The container was heated and pure Cu was deposited on the safety pin which is due to hydrogen production and reduction of CuCh. The same procedure was done under inert atmosphere of nitrogen and no deposition was observed (no bubbles were produced). Therefore, the role of oxygen in water splitting with rGOQDs/Cu- MOF/y-Fe2O3 and GOQDs was confirmed.

[0082] Example 9: Analyzing an electrical current of GOQDs

[0083] For analyzing an electrical current of exemplary synthesized GOQDs, 0.2 g GOQDs were dispersed in 35 mL of deionized water. The presence of electric current in the microampere scale was observed in dispersed GOQDs in water. This current was first positive for about two seconds and then was continuously negative. Every time the electrodes were taken out of the system and then put back into the system, the same process was repeated (first positive current and then negative current). As concentration of GOQDs in water increased and temperature increased, the absolute value of the electrical current intensity increased, and this temperature dependence and concentration dependence is in accordance with behavior that GOQDs showed in water decomposition (also in water decomposition tests). The intensity of water decomposition increased with increasing the amount of GOQDs and also with increasing temperature. The electrical current observed in the ammeters was not constant and the amount of electrical currents decreased as GOQDs settled. Also, the amount of electrical currents was changed by changing the distance of the electrodes. In the digital ammeter, for the system containing 38 ml of deionized water and 0.18 g of GOQDs with medium dispersion, an electrical current of -13 pA was observed.

[0084] The same phenomenon with less intensity was observed for the dispersion of rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 in water. Results indicated that GOQDs and rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y- Fe2Os showed higher electrical current when applying a magnetic field to the dispersion of the rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 and water and the dispersion of GOQDs and water.

[0085] The existence of inherent electrical current of the dispersion of rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y- Fe2O3 in water proved the results from performed tests. Table 1 illustrates self-inductance and capacitance measurements of GOQDs at room temperature and no magnetic field, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Table 2 illustrates selfinductance and capacitance measurements of GOQDs at 30°C and no magnetic field, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Table 3 illustrates electrical current measurements of GOQDs with a weight ratio of GOQDs to water of 0.05: 27 (GOQDs: water) (humid GOQDs) and 0.05: 35 (GOQDs: water) (wet GOQDs), consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0086] Table 1. Self-inductance and capacitance measurements of GOQDs at room temperature and no magnetic field

[0087] Table 2. Self-induced and capacitance measurements of GOQDs at 30°C with no magnetic field. [0088] Table 3. Electrical current measurements of GOQDs with a weight ratio of GOQDs to water of 0.05: 27 (GOQDs: water) (humid GOQDs) and 0.05: 35 (GOQDs: water) (wet GOQDs).

[0089] A presence of electric current in synthesized GOQDs formed inherent magnetic properties in GOQDs. The amount of this magnetite was also measured by the device for the container containing 0.05 g of GOQDs and 20 ml of water. Different values were displayed in ammeter (because the amount of electrical current changed continuously and in different parts of the container). Furthermore, synthesized GOQDs (dry) were monitored under a microscope in the presence of a magnetic field, and the sudden movements of the particles in the presence of an external magnetic field proved the existence of inherent magnetism in these particles.

[0090] Measuring the electrical conductivity and capacitance of the mixture of 0.05 g of synthesized GOQDs and 20 ml of water in the presence of a magnetic field showed that the values of these quantities increases in the presence of a magnetic field, which can indicate an increase in the electric current in the container.

[0091] To observe the effect of temperature on the amount of electric current, 0.08 g of GOQDs was dispersed in 20 ml of water and the electric current was measured at several temperatures. According to the data summarized in Table 1, there is electron exchange at room temperature and even at zero degrees Celsius. The data showed that the current values were never constant and were constantly changing. There was a possibility of electric flux towards both electrodes. Table 4 illustrates electrical conductivity of 0.08 g of GOQDs in 20 mL deionized water, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0092] Table 4. Electrical conductivity of 0.08 g of GOQDs in 20 mL deionized water.

[0093] Based on the results of measuring the electrical current inside the rGOQDs system, which indicates the presence of electrical current even at zero degrees Celsius, it can be concluded that water decomposition occurs at least at temperatures of zero degrees Celsius and above, depending on the concentration of rGOQDs and electric current.

[0094] Example 10: Proof of hydrogen production in GOQDs and deionized water system based on gas chromatography (GC) analysis

[0095] 0.2 g of exemplary synthesized GOQDs (or rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3) was poured into a 120 ml container and 5 ml of distilled water was added to it. The lid of the glass was closed with a silicone cap and then sealed with an aluminum cap. Then the glass was kept in a water bath at 85 °C for half an hour. Then, 1 ml of the air inside the glass was removed with a syringe and injected into the GC device. The peak related to hydrogen was observed at the output of the GC device (FIG. 11, 12, and 13) and in this way, the presence of water decomposition process in the presence of GOQDs at low temperature was proved. GOQDs and rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 acted like metal-air batteries in the presence of oxygen of air and generated electrical current. GOQDs and rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 can split water by creating an inherent electrochemical system. Therefore, because the amount of oxygen in 120 ml container containing 5 ml of water and 0.2 g of the synthesized nanocomposite is very small, the peak observed for hydrogen is small. FIG. 11 illustrates a GC pattern 1100 for GOQDs after 30 minutes of collecting gases, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. An exemplary GC pattern for GOQDs after 30 minutes had retention time of 1.033 minute and a peak area of 11.8592. FIG. 12 illustrates a GC pattern 120 for rGOQDs/Cu-MOF/y-Fe2O3 after 30 minutes of collecting gases, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. An exemplary GC pattern for rGOQDs/Cu- MOF/y-Fe2O3 after 30 minutes had retention time of 0.991 minute and a peak area of 8.2955. FIG. 13 illustrates a GC pattern 130 for GOQDs after 10 minutes of collecting gases, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. An exemplary GC pattern for GOQDs after 10 minutes had retention time of 1.025 minute and a peak area of 9.2860.

[0096] The GC test was repeated with the above method for GOQDs, but this time the sample was injected into the system and collected for 10 minutes. As can be seen in the data of the curves, as expected, the amount of hydrogen collected compared to the amount collected in 30 minutes did not decrease significantly. It proved that the activity of the synthesized GOQDs in water decomposition is high and within 10 minutes, it split most of water that could be decomposed according to the amount of O2 available and presented in the environment.

[0097] Industrial Applicability

[0098] A nanocomposite-water mixture may be formed and used here to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. An exemplary method of splitting water may use an exemplary synthesized non-hazardous and high efficiency nanocomposite for splitting water. An exemplary method may be used in industry for splitting water at low levels of temperature. Hydrogen and oxygen produced by an exemplary rapid, simple, and low -temperature splitting water process disclosed here, may be used in different fields of technology.

[0099] While the foregoing has described what are considered to be the best mode and/or other examples, it is understood that various modifications may be made therein and that the subject matter disclosed herein may be implemented in various forms and examples, and that the teachings may be applied in numerous applications, only some of which have been described herein. It is intended by the following claims to claim any and all applications, modifications and variations that fall within the true scope of the present teachings.

[00100] Unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, and other specifications that are set forth in this specification, including in the claims that follow, are approximate, not exact. They are intended to have a reasonable range that is consistent with the functions to which they relate and with what is customary in the art to which they pertain.

[00101] The scope of protection is limited solely by the claims that now follow. That scope is intended and should be interpreted to be as broad as is consistent with the ordinary meaning of the language that is used in the claims when interpreted in light of this specification and the prosecution history that follows and to encompass all structural and functional equivalents. Notwithstanding, none of the claims are intended to embrace subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirement of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the Patent Act, nor should they be interpreted in such a way. Any unintended embracement of such subject matter is hereby disclaimed.

[00102] Except as stated immediately above, nothing that has been stated or illustrated is intended or should be interpreted to cause a dedication of any component, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage, or equivalent to the public, regardless of whether it is or is not recited in the claims.

[00103] It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein. Relational terms such as first and second and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non- exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by “a” or “an” does not, without further constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[00104] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in various implementations. This is for purposes of streamlining the disclosure, and is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed implementations require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed implementation. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

[00105] While various implementations have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more implementations and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the implementations. Although many possible combinations of features are shown in the accompanying figures and discussed in this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed features are possible. Any feature of any implementation may be used in combination with or substituted for any other feature or element in any other implementation unless specifically restricted. Therefore, it will be understood that any of the features shown and/or discussed in the present disclosure may be implemented together in any suitable combination. Accordingly, the implementations are not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.