Zeolites are playing a significant role as catalysts and adsorbents in many processes to address global challenges in energy and environmental applications. While their crystalline structures with precisely sized micropores are crucial to their performance, the synthesis of many high silica zeolites (those with desired compositions for catalysis) continues to require high pressure hydrothermal conditions, relatively long crystallization times, alkaline media (mineralizing agent), and organic structure-directing agents. A grand challenge in the synthesis of these functional materials is to intensify their high-yield synthesis process so as to become more sustainable from the perspective of energy footprint and cost [1]. This is all the more challenging in view of zeolites’ general nonclassical crystallization mechanisms [2]. Thus, intensifying the synthesis of zeolites is essential for the sustainable use and development of zeolite catalysts.
Herein, we present an unconventional approach for synthesizing zeolites with increased efficiency, involving multiple characterizations including nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and elemental analysis. Examination of time-resolved powder X-ray diffraction demonstrates enhanced zeolite syntheses compared to conventional hydrothermal procedures. The results of this study demonstrate new approaches for intensifying the synthesis of zeolites, including those currently in use commercially.
[1] Zones, S.I. Microporous and Mesoporous Materials 2011, 144, 1-8.
[2] Mallette, A. J.; Shilpa, K.; Rimer, J.D. Chem. Rev. 2024, 124, 3416-3493.
