Electrospun Zeolite Nanofibers for Catalysis and Adsorption Applications

Zeolites are widely used as microporous catalysts and adsorbents. However, zeolite nanoparticles have limitations in practical applications due to their unavoidable agglomeration and difficulty in recycling. One promising way to overcome these problems is to immobilize zeolite particles on electrospun nanofibers. In this review, we first systematically summarize the methods of constructing zeolite-based nanofibers by the electrospinning technique, encompassing direct electrospinning and surface modification techniques. The direct electrospinning method enables the versatile fabrication of zeolite-based nanofibers from composite mixtures containing zeolite particles, polymers, and solvents. However, as particles are embedded within the polymer matrix, the accessibility of active sites is restricted. To enhance accessibility, surface modification techniques were developed as a complementary strategy. These techniques involve growing zeolite particles directly on the surface of preformed nanofibers. Further, post-treatment strategies for the preparation of functional electrospun zeolite nanofibers and their derivatives are introduced for different applications. The unique properties and performances of different electrospun zeolite nanofibers in the field of catalysis and adsorption are also highlighted by quantifying performance indicators such as overpotential, catalytic yield, and adsorption capacity, spanning diverse applications, such as energy storage and conversion, water treatment, air pollutant filtration, gas separation, heterogeneous catalysis, and blood purification systems. Finally, challenges and perspectives for the electrospun zeolite nanofibers are presented for guidance in future research.