Abstract:
A novel, natural template mediated, one-step, direct synthesis
route was developed for the preparation of nanocrystalline
zeolites. Bio-template (pollen grains and yeast) was used along
with a microporous zeolite structure director to obtain nanocrystalline ZSM-5. Nanocrystalline ZSM-5 exhibited large surface
area, pore volume and intercrystalline mesopores when
compared to the conventional ZSM-5. Bio-template (containing
different functional groups) cooperatively participated in the
zeolite crystallization process with the assistance of microporous zeolite structure director to form nanocrystalline ZSM-5 framework, while the cell walls of the bio-templates exerted an
influence on restraining the growth of zeolite nanoparticles.
Bio-template mediated synthesis strategy of the present
investigation was extended for the preparation of other related
materials such as silicalite, zirconosilicate, and titanosilicate.
Nanocrystalline ZSM-5 and metallosilicates exhibited excellent
catalytic activities involving large organic molecules, which are
important for the synthesis of a wide range of industrially
important fine chemicals.
