Fluoride- and OSDA-free synthesis of ZSM-5 with controllable b-axis orientation: Insights into the role of medium alkalinity and seed induction

MFI-topology nanosheets with a b-axis-oriented structure are valuable catalysts in diffusion-controlled acid-catalyzed reactions. Therefore, b-axis-oriented ZSM-5 nanosheets were synthesized herein in a fluoride-free solution without using special additives and complex methods. The initial gel pH of mixed raw materials was adjusted to approximately 5–7 (weak acidity) to direct nanosheet structure formation. The target ZSM-5 zeolite with a b-axis-oriented structure was achieved through the synergistic effect between the involved gel pH and seed solution. The seed solution directed the formation of an MFI structure, and the low alkalinity of the gel limited crystal growth in the b plane, thereby affording b-axis-oriented thin sheets. The ratio of the lengths of the c and b axes of the obtained ZSM-5 could be effectively tuned by adjusting the pH of the initial gel. Compared with the nanosized hexagonal ZSM-5 sample synthesized in a strong-basic system, the as-synthesized b-axis-oriented ZSM-5 exhibited a lower coking rate and higher propylene yield during the considered 1-hexene cracking reaction.