Synthesis and characterization of mesoporous zeolite Y by using block copolymers as templates

Abstract Mesoporous zeolite Y is directly synthesized using block copolymers (pluronic F127) as templates. The block copolymers guide the aluminosilicate gel to assemble into mesoporous zeolite under its excellent aggregation properties. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen adsorption and desorption, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), IR spectra analyses (FT-IR), FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine (Py-IR), and temperature-programmed ammonia desorption (NH 3 -TPD). The results indicated that Meso-USY prepared with templates had a dual mesopores and large mesopore volume of 0.20 cm 3  g −1 . The acid type over Meso-USY was also modified, and high Bronsted to Lewis ratio was obtained. Their catalytic performance was assessed in a micro-activity test unite at 733 K using light diesel as material raw, Although the Meso-USY showed lower crystallinity and less total acid sites compared to Conv-USY, Meso-CAT prepared from Meso-USY presented excellent catalytic performance. Then, it can be concluded that the structural and textural properties of the mesoporous zeolite Y have considerable influence on the catalytic performance. The abundant mesopores volume and appropriate acidity are necessary for the excellent catalytic activity.