A nanoscale investigation of the formation of mesostructured zeolites FAU and LTL

Nanostructured materials can be utilised as potential catalysts for the production of platform chemicals and renewable biofuels from biomass derived molecules. The formation of hierarchical meso-microporous zeolites LTL and FAU via the surfactant assisted tandem acid-base post-synthesis treatment has been investigated by time-resolved in situ synchrotron SAXS and WAXS, providing a new insight into the mechanism of the mesostructuring treatment. Based on the results of TEM and in situ synchrotron measurements, a model for the formation of the core-shell structure of LTL zeolite crystals is proposed. Complementary evaluation using FTIR, NMR and nitrogen adsorption, in conjunction with reaction studies on mesostructured zeolites, demonstrated a potential for enhanced catalytic performance of these materials owing to the increased accessibility of the active sites and reduced transport limitations. • Mesostructured zeolites LTL and FAU prepared using the surfactant-templated strategy. • Formation of hierarchical LTL and FAU investigated by time-resolved in situ synchrotron SAXS and WAXS. • The generation of the core-shell structure of LTL crystals is proposed. • The accessibility of active sites of the zeolite catalysts evaluated.