Title: Development of Hierarchical Zeolite Catalysts for the Production of Renewable Chemicals
Speaker: Prof. Wei Fan (Massachusetts State University)
Time: 10:00-11:00a.m., Dec. 15th, 2015
Venue: Room 214, 2F of Building No.16, Wushan Campus
Abstract:
In this presentation, a simple and efficient one-step synthesis method for mesoporous zeolites will be introduced. No any secondary organic template is used in the synthesis method. Our concept to generate mesoporosity in zeolites is to precisely control the formation and self-assembly of the zeolite precursors formed in the initial stage of zeolite crystallization. The approach requires comprehensive understanding of the crystallization mechanism of zeolites and ability to control the nucleation and crystal growth. I will first focus on the introduction of synthesis of mesoporous ZSM-5, and highlight the possibility of using the method to a wide range of zeolite catalysts. The mass transport properties and catalytic properties for biomass conversion will be discussed along with the critical future aspect regarding the development of mesoporous zeolites. It was concluded that transport control in the hierarchical zeolites includes the contribution from the configurational diffusion in micropores, diffusion on the external surface and surface pore narrowing or surface pore blockage at the external surface of the crystals. Rational development of hierarchical zeolites requires a comprehensive understanding of their transport phenomena.