Unlocking the Secrets of Zeolites
Scientists from Stockholm University, East China Normal University, and the Sinopec Shanghai Research Institute of Petrochemical Technology have discovered two new types of zeolites, a class of materials crucial to many industrial processes. The results are published in Nature Synthesis.
Zeolites are porous crystals with tiny and uniform pores that act like molecular sieves, selectively allowing certain molecules to pass through while blocking others. This unique property makes them invaluable in applications such as catalysis, water purification, and petroleum refining. Their ability to facilitate chemical reactions efficiently and sustainably underpins many everyday products and cutting-edge technologies.
– Understanding how zeolites form and transform at the atomic level has been a longstanding challenge. Traditional methods used to study these materials often fail when dealing with their tiny sizes and complex structures. However, the research team has harnessed a new technique called time-resolved 3D electron diffraction (3D ED) to overcome these obstacles, says Xiaodong Zou, professor at the Department of Chemistry, Stockholm University.
Time-resolved 3D ED allows scientists to capture rapid changes in the atomic structure of materials as they undergo chemical reactions. By taking snapshots of atoms in motion, the researchers were able to observe how atoms shift, form new bonds and break old ones during the transformation of zeolites. This level of detail was previously unattainable, especially in small and intricate crystals.
– Our team have identified two entirely new types of zeolites, named ECNU-45 and ECNU-46. These extra-large pore zeolites expand the family of known zeolites and offer exciting possibilities for enhanced performance in various applications, thanks to their unique structural features, says Xiaodong Zou.
By understanding the atomic-scale mechanisms of topotactic reactions—transformations that preserve the overall framework of a material while altering its structure—scientists can better engineer materials for specific industrial needs. The successful application of time-resolved 3D electron diffraction marks a significant milestone in materials science. It opens up new avenues for exploring and manipulating the building blocks of matter, accelerating the development of functional materials that can meet the evolving demands of technology and industry.
Last updated: January 20, 2025
Source: The Communications Office