Structural Flexibility of Hydrated RHO Nanosized Zeolite Synthesized via Green Synthesis Approach at Subfreezing...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Green Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Zeolite structural flexibility is crucial for gas separation and storage.
• Optimizing zeolite performance often requires energy-intensive activation methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the structural behavior of nanosized RHO zeolite under cryogenic conditions.
• Explore a green synthesis and low-energy activation pathway for RHO zeolite.

Main Methods:

• In situ X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) and in situ Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy.
• Density Functional Theory (DFT) simulations.
• Green synthesis of nanosized RHO zeolite at low temperatures without organic structure-directing agents.

Main Results:

• Nanosized RHO zeolite synthesized via green methods exhibits a two-phase structure upon hydration.
• Cooling to cryogenic temperatures induces a stable, expanded metastable phase.
• This metastable state shows CO2 adsorption comparable to conventionally activated zeolites.

Conclusions:

• Mild, green chemistry-aligned activation of zeolites is viable, reducing energy consumption.
• The discovered metastable state offers a sustainable route for CO2 capture.
• This work provides a blueprint for developing innovative porous materials through sustainable practices.