Design of hierarchical zeolitecatalysts by desilication

Abstract

Hierarchical (or mesoporous) zeolites have received an ever-increasing attention due to their improved performance in catalysed reactions with respect to conventional (purely microporous) zeolites. Desilication in alkaline media has become a widely applied preparation method to tailor these modified zeolites, due to an optimal combination of efficiency and simplicity. This review presents recent developments that have expanded its general understanding and turned this top-down treatment highly versatile, controllable, and scalable. Design aspects of mesoporous zeolites for catalytic applications are emphasised, encircling the establishment of synthesis–property–function relationships. Alkaline treatment is a key step in strategic combinations with other post-synthesis modifications towards superior zeolite catalysts. The outlook of the field, pinpointing present needs and short-term priorities, is discussed.