Synthesis of nano-ZSM-5 zeolite via a dry gel conversion crystallization process and its application in MTO reaction

In this work, nano-ZSM-5 zeolite with superior catalytic properties was synthesized from LAPONITE® as one of the Si sources by a dry gel conversion (DGC) method, and its crystallization mechanism was investigated as well. The properties of ZSM-5(Z-L) synthesized from LAPONITE® as one of the Si sources and ZSM-5(Z-T) synthesized from tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) as a single Si source have been compared. The results show that LAPONITE® is an important factor for the formation of nanocrystals with high crystallinity. It can not only act as the Mg and Si source for the zeolite synthesis but also exert a “confined space” effect to control ZSM-5 crystal growth. The Z-L sample with nanosized crystals can shorten the reactant and product diffusion path length, which seriously improves diffusion efficiency and results in longer catalytic stability. This work provides a novel and efficient route for synthesis of nano-ZSM-5 zeolite.