title: Formation of ZSM-22 zeolite catalytic particles by fusion of elementary nanorods.
abstract: An ZSM-22 aluminosilicate zeolite was synthesized using the hydrothermal gel method at 150 degrees C. Products obtained after different synthesis times were characterized using various techniques and catalytic testing. Massive formation of ZSM-22 nanocrystals occurs after only a short synthesis time, appearing as isolated rods with a cross section of 12+/-4 nm. Nanorods have aluminum enriched at their external surface. Later in the crystallization process nanorods align and fuse sideways, whereby the external surface is systematically converted into an internal micropore surface. The formation of aluminum bearing micropores by the joining of nanorod surfaces is responsible for the enhanced catalytic activity. For this, the zeolite synthesis of nanoscale crystallites is ineffective for enhancing catalytic activity.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Surface Chemistry and Catalysis, Catholic University of Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 23, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium.
authors.forename: Kazuaki
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Hayasaka
authors.forename: Duoduo
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Liang
authors.forename: Ward
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Huybrechts
authors.forename: Bart R
authors.initials: BR
authors.lastname: De Waele
authors.forename: Kristof J
authors.initials: KJ
authors.lastname: Houthoofd
authors.forename: Pierre
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Eloy
authors.forename: Eric M
authors.initials: EM
authors.lastname: Gaigneaux
authors.forename: Gustaaf
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: van Tendeloo
authors.forename: Joris W
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Thybaut
authors.forename: Guy B
authors.initials: GB
authors.lastname: Marin
authors.forename: Joeri F M
authors.initials: JF
authors.lastname: Denayer
authors.forename: Gino V
authors.initials: GV
authors.lastname: Baron
authors.forename: Pierre A
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Jacobs
authors.forename: Christine E A
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Kirschhock
authors.forename: Johan A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Martens