Combining Mesoporosity and Shape Selectivity in FAU-MFI Interzeolite Intermediates for Renewable Xylenes Production

Interzeolite Transformation Intermediates (ITIs) were synthesized via microwave-assisted conversion of FAU to MFI phases and applied in the transformation of 2,5-dimethylfuran (DMF) and ethanol into xylenes. Structural, textural, and acidic properties were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), NMR, Raman, and NH₃-TPD. Catalytic tests, including Friedel-Crafts alkylation and triisopropylbenzene cracking, revealed that hybridization enhanced molecular accessibility and acid site distribution. The optimized material, HyZ-38, which preserved features of both FAU and MFI, achieved a high xylene yield of 45.2%. This performance was linked to the balance between mesoporosity and shape selectivity, enabling better diffusion and fewer side reactions. Additionally, microwave-assisted synthesis reduced both time and energy consumption. These results underscore the potential of interzeolite transformation as a sustainable strategy for designing efficient catalysts for biomass valorization and renewable aromatic production under demanding reaction conditions.