The use of zeolite catalysts in areas such as biofuels and emission technologies in response to increasing energy demand and stringent environmental standards requires concerted efforts to improve zeolite performance. Here, we will present a multiscale approach to address this challenge using a versatile, facile synthesis technique employing zeolite growth modifiers (ZGMs) to tailor zeolite crystal size and habit. To this end, we utilize a synergistic combination of the following techniques: detailed atomistic simulations to examine ZGM binding modes on individual crystal faces, force spectroscopy to assess ZGM-crystal interactions, atomic force microscopy to characterize the effects of ZGM on zeolite surface architecture, and bulk crystal characterization studies to quantify ZGM efficacy. These studies span multiple length scales (macroscopic to molecular) to identify fundamental mechanisms of growth modification. These studies are a platform for rational design wherein fundamental understanding of ZGM-crystal recognition and the judicious selection of modifiers can optimize zeolite catalysts.

Multiscale approach to the rational design of zeolite catalysts

245th National Meeting (2013)

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