Synthesis and catalytic performance of hierarchically structured MOR zeolites by a dual-functional templating approach.

Novel hierarchical MOR zeolites have been successfully synthesized via a one-step dual-functional templating strategy utilizing gemini organic surfactant (C18-2-8) through hydrothermal process. After a period of ∼96 h for crystallization, the hierarchy MOR zeolite with a larger BET (412.0 m2/g), abundant intracrystalline mesopores (average mesopore size distribution of 4.55 nm), and more accessible acid sites can be synthesized. The XRD study revealed a long range structural ordering of mesoporous and a good crystallinity of microporous structure. The results indicated that the surfactant acted as a dual-functional template for generating both micropores and mesopores simultaneously. Compared with conventional MOR zeolite, hierarchically structured MOR zeolite not only has higher activity and stability, but also can avoid side-reaction taking place in ethanol dehydration reactions. This hierarchical micro/mesostructured mordenite zeolite may be a candidate for practical industrial applications especially in those reactions where bulky molecules are involved.