Modified Zeolites with Amine Functionalities and Ordered Mesopores
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional zeolites lack enhanced catalytic functionality and accessibility for large reactant molecules due to their microporous structure, limiting their effectiveness in petrochemical applications.
Innovation Solution
Modified zeolites with amine functionalities and ordered mesopores of cubic symmetry are developed, featuring isolated terminal primary amine and silazane functionalities, which improve catalytic properties and accessibility by allowing larger molecules to diffuse and react effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional zeolites with microporous structure are used, then catalytic functionality is provided, but accessibility for large reactant molecules is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mesopores (2-50 nm) into the zeolite structure in addition to the natural micropores, creating a hierarchical porous system. This allows large reactant molecules to access the internal catalytic sites through the larger mesopore channels while the micropores provide the necessary catalytic functionality, thereby resolving the accessibility limitation of conventional microporous zeolites.
Solution Approach 2:
The zeolite structure is segmented into two distinct pore systems: micropores for catalytic activity and mesopores for molecular transport. This segmentation allows each pore type to fulfill its specific function optimally, with mesopores serving as highways for large molecules and micropores providing the catalytic reaction sites.
2Productivity
If microporous framework is used, then catalytic functionality is achieved, but diffusion of large molecules is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
By incorporating mesopores with larger diameters (2-50 nm) into the zeolite structure, the patent creates accelerated diffusion pathways that allow large molecules to reach the catalytic micropore sites more quickly. The hierarchical pore structure maintains the high catalytic activity of the micropores while adding fast transport channels through the mesopores.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a mesopore dimension to the traditional microporous structure, creating a multi-scale hierarchical pore system. This dimensional expansion from purely microporous to meso-microporous provides additional transport pathways that operate at different length scales, enabling faster diffusion of large molecules while preserving catalytic functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional zeolite structure is used, then structural stability is maintained, but catalytic functionality is not enhanced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite hierarchical structure combining the stable crystalline zeolite framework with an integrated mesoporous system. The zeolite micropores provide structural stability and inherent catalytic functionality, while the added mesopores enhance accessibility and adaptability for various reactant molecules, achieving both stability and enhanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality modification by introducing mesopores at specific locations within the zeolite crystal structure without altering the fundamental zeolite framework. The mesopores are strategically incorporated to provide enhanced accessibility while the core zeolite structure maintains its stability and catalytic properties.
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 modified zeolites exhibit enhanced catalytic activity and accessibility, enabling improved diffusion and selectivity for reactants and products, thus enhancing their performance in hydrocarbon processing and petrochemical reactions.
Implementation Method 1
contacting the dehydroxylated zeolite with the ammonia forms the modified zeolite... isolated terminal primary amine functionalities bonded to silicon atoms of the microporous framework
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of mesopores having diameters of greater than 2 nm and less than or equal to 50 nm, wherein the plurality of mesopores are ordered with cubic symmetry... enabling improved diffusion and selectivity for reactants and products
Data Source
AI summary
Modified zeolite may include a microporous framework including a plurality of micropores having diameters of less than or equal to 2 nm, wherein the microporous framework includes at least silicon atoms and oxygen atoms; a plurality of mesopores having diameters of greater than 2 nm and less than or equal to 50 nm, wherein the plurality of mesopores are ordered with cubic symmetry. The modified zeolite also includes: isolated terminal primary amine functionalities bonded to silicon atoms of the microporous framework; or silazane functionalities, wherein the nitrogen atom of the silazane bridges two silicon atoms of the microporous framework; or both.