Synthesis of Copper Containing Zeolites: New, Simple and Efficient Method for Quantitative Exchange

A new technique is described which allows the quantitative exchange of copper(II) into ZSM-5 zeolites. The sequence consists of two steps: (i) impregnation of the zeolite with copper(II) in amounts higher than the exchange capacity; (ii) leaching of the copper in excess with respect to the exchange capacity with a chlorobenzene-water mixture at high temperature. The performances of the new materials in the hydrolysis of chlorobenzene, as well as preliminary informations on the nature of the catalyst and the type of mechanism are presented.