Zeolite beta monoliths with hierarchical porosity by the transformation of bimodal pore silica gel

Zeolite beta monoliths with hierarchical porosity were prepared by the steam-assisted conversion of pre-seeded bimodal pore silica gel using the Layer-by-Layer process. The bimodal pore silica gel acts as both macrotemplates and silica source. The zeolite beta monoliths were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, IR absorption spectra and nitrogen adsorption measurements. This zeolite beta monolith had hierarchical porosity: the unique micropores within the zeolite, the small macropores generated by aggregation of crystallites and three dimensionally interconnected macropores formed by template of silica gel. It is believed that the hierarchical structured zeolite monoliths will show good properties and potential applications the fields of catalyst, ion exchange, and adsorption.