Rapid green synthesis of ZSM-5 zeolite from leached illite clay.

Abstract A seed-induced rapid synthesis of submicron ZSM-5 zeolites from acid-leached illite clay was achieved via solid-like state conversion. The optimal synthesis conditions and crystallization mechanism were investigated. The synthesized ZSM-5 zeolites were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, N 2 adsorption–desorption, X-ray fluorescence, NH 3 temperature-programmed desorption, and 27Al MAS NMR. The results clearly indicated that well-dispersed submicron-size ZSM-5 zeolites were synthesized in the relatively short period of 6 h. In the solid-like state conversion synthesis system induced by crystal seeds, the sample gradually transformed from amorphous to well-dispersed submicron ZSM-5 as the crystallization time increased. Aluminum entered the ZSM-5 zeolites framework to provide acidic sites. The obtained ZSM-5 zeolites showed slightly better catalytic performance in toluene disproportionation than ZSM-5 seeds. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Highly crystalline submicron ZSM-5 is obtained via solid-like state conversion. • Highly crystalline submicron ZSM-5 is obtained by the seed-assisted method. • Highly crystalline submicron ZSM-5 can be synthesized within 6 h. • High-valued utilization of natural illite. • Synthetic ZSM-5 has high catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]