Advances in the fabrication of MFI zeolite nanosheets for separation and energy applications

Abstract

In recent years, two-dimensional MFI-type zeolite nanosheets have emerged as a research hotspot in the field of porous materials due to their excellent structural properties and application potential. Compared to traditional bulky MFI-type zeolites, two-dimensional MFI-type zeolite nanosheets exhibit a larger specific surface area, shorter diffusion paths, and more accessible surface-active sites, significantly enhancing their performance in separation, catalysis, and adsorption. To date, scientific researchers have developed various methods for synthesizing nanosheets, striving to achieve precise control over thickness, size, and crystal plane orientation. This article provides an overview of two main preparation methods for MFI zeolite nanosheets, namely top-down and bottom-up approaches, along with their latest advancements. Their separation performance in industrially important mixture systems, such as xylene isomers and butane isomers, and catalytic applications in the petrochemical industry are also summarized. Notably, the article introduces their latest applications in redox flow batteries. Finally, future directions for the development of MFI nanosheets are discussed.