Boron SSZ-117x Molecular Sieve Synthesis for New Catalytic Frameworks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies do not provide a boron-containing molecular sieve with the SSZ-117x crystal structure, limiting the development of new catalysts and adsorption/separation materials.

Innovation Solution

A boron SSZ-117x molecular sieve is synthesized using N,N,N,3,5-pentamethyladamantan-1-ammonium cations as a structure directing agent, with a method involving a reaction mixture of FAU framework zeolite, germanium, boron, fluoride ions, and water, followed by crystallization and removal of the structure directing agent through calcination or ozone treatment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional molecular sieve synthesis methods are used, then existing crystal structures are maintained, but the ability to create unique boron-containing SSZ-117x crystal structure is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecrystal structure variabilityVSAvoidsynthesis difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the chemical composition parameters by incorporating boron and germanium in specific ratios (B2O3:TO2 where T = Si + Ge, with SiO2/GeO2 ratios from 4-12 and TO2/B2O3 ratios ≥10). These parameter changes enable the formation of the unique boron SSZ-117x crystal structure that differs from conventional molecular sieves.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses N,N,N,3,5-pentamethyladamantan-1-ammonium cations as a structure directing agent (SDA) to mediate the formation of the SSZ-117x crystal structure. This intermediary organic cation guides the self-assembly of the boron-containing framework into the desired crystal morphology and pore structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If new crystal structures are created, then unique catalytic properties are achieved, but the complexity of the synthesis process increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecatalytic functionalityVSAvoidsynthesis process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates boron and germanium sources along with the structure directing agent into the reaction mixture before crystallization begins. This preliminary preparation of the reaction system with all necessary components in specific ratios enables the direct formation of the boron SSZ-117x structure during crystallization, avoiding complex post-synthesis modification steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a composite molecular sieve structure containing multiple elements (boron, germanium, silicon, and nitrogen from the SDA) that work together to provide unique catalytic properties. The combination of these elements in the SSZ-117x framework produces synergistic effects that enhance catalytic performance for organic compound conversion reactions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Reliability

If boron is incorporated into the molecular sieve framework, then unique adsorption and catalytic properties are obtained, but the synthesis reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance consistencyVSAvoidcomposition control
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent establishes specific parameter ranges for reliable boron SSZ-117x synthesis: TO2/B2O3 ratios ≥10 (preferred ≥15), SiO2/GeO2 ratios from 4-12 (preferred 7-10), and controlled amounts of fluoride ions and water. These parameter specifications ensure consistent incorporation of boron into the framework and reliable reproduction of the desired crystal structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses characteristic X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns as feedback to verify successful formation of the boron SSZ-117x crystal structure. The presence of distinct XRD peaks confirms the desired crystal structure and boron incorporation, allowing optimization of synthesis conditions to achieve consistent results.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The boron SSZ-117x molecular sieve offers unique catalytic properties for organic compound conversion reactions, particularly in reforming processes, and serves as an effective adsorption/separation material.

Implementation Method 1

subjecting the reaction mixture to crystallization conditions sufficient to form crystals of a SSZ-117x boron molecular sieve

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCrystallization: Crystallisation

Implementation Method 2

The SDA can be removed by calcination, or by ozone treatment

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal decomposition: Pyrolysis

Implementation Method 3

The SDA can be removed by calcination, or by ozone treatment, e.g., at 150° C.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOxidation: Oxidation

Data Source

PatentUS12612311B2Molecular sieve boron SSZ-117x
Publication Date: 2026.04.28 CHEVRON USA INC
  • US12612311B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A novel synthetic crystalline borongermanosilicate molecular sieve material, designated boron SSZ-117x, is provided. The boron SSZ-117x can be synthesized using N,N,N,3,5-pentamethyladamantan-1-ammonium cations as a structure directing agent. The synthesis employs a boron pathway to achieve the boron molecular sieve. The boron SSZ-117x may be used in organic compound conversion reactions, such as reforming, and/or sorptive processes.