Researchers have developed a novel aluminosilicate zeolite, named ZMQ-1, which features interconnected meso-microporous channels to enhance stability and catalytic efficiency in petrochemical processes. Published in Nature, ZMQ-1 stands out for being the first zeolite to integrate intrinsic 28-ring mesopores, addressing longstanding challenges in traditional zeolite design such as pore size limitations and structural instability. This innovative zeolite allows for the processing of larger molecules, making it a significant advancement for heavy oil upgrading.
Utilizing a phosphonium-based organic structure-directing agent, the researchers were able to synthesize a stable mesoporous structure through hydrothermal methods with tunable silicon-to-aluminum ratios. ZMQ-1 demonstrated a high vacuum gasoil (VGO) conversion rate, comparable to traditional zeolites like USY and Beta, while significantly outperforming commercial mesoporous molecular sieves like MCM-41 in efficiency and stability. Additionally, this zeolite exhibited double the selectivity for diesel production and reduced coke formation, achieving an impressive overall fuel selectivity of 80%.
ZMQ-1 represents a breakthrough in zeolite technology, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable processes in heavy oil cracking and green energy conversion.
