Heteroatom-Induced Defect Growth for Zeolites Beta with Hierarchical Pores for Heavy Oil Cracking

Hierarchical zeolites Beta have been demonstrated to be advantageous in the catalytic conversion of large molecules due to the elimination of transport limitation. However, obtaining zeolite Beta directly with hierarchical pores in one step is still a great challenge. Herein, we report a simple one-step process to obtain hierarchical zeolite Beta by a defect growth method induced by the grafting of Ca atoms. This strategy is feasible in the formation of unstable Si–O–Ca bonds in comparison with Si–O–Al. Meanwhile, subsequent calcination will lead to breaking of the unstable Ca–O bonds. As a direct result, mesopores will be generated in this totally inorganic synthesis system. This defect-engineering mesopore generation strategy established an avenue for sustainable zeolite design with an eco-friendly procedure.