A process for preparing nano size zeolites

Abstract

A process has been developed to synthesize various zeolites with nano size crystals. The process involves forming an aluminosilicate initiator which exhibits the Tyndall effect. This initiator is then mixed with a clear solution comprising reactive sources of Al, Si, M and R plus water. M is an alkali or alkaline earth metal while R is an organoammonium compound. The resultant reaction mixture is reacted at a temperature and for a time sufficient to produce a zeolite such as zeolite Y with average crystallite size less than 500 nm.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims priority to provisional application 60 / 785,932, filed March 24, 2006, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Background of the invention [0003] Nanosized zeolites are substances with a crystal size of less than 1000 nm and usually less than 500 nm. Zeolites include nanocrystals with increased surface area, which can enhance activity and selectivity in certain processes in which they are used. The increased activity is most likely attributable to the increased intracrystalline dispersion and higher proportion of surface atoms. [0004] The synthesis of nanocrystalline zeolites has been reported in the literature. For example, R. Van Grieken et al. in Microporous and Mesoporous Materials, Vol. 39 (2000), 135-147 describe the synthesis of ZSM-5 crystals at 10-100 nm. B.J. Schoeman et al. in Zeolites, Vol. 14 (1994), 110 disclose the preparation of Y zeolit...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

The problem with these two preparation methods is that the reagent costs are much higher than standard reagents and the yield of Y zeolite is low