Electro-assisted control over zeolite crystallization and modification: theory, configuration, and applications

Over time, advancements in chemical and reactor-based adaptations to zeolite synthesis have been developed to refine existing methods and achieve rare compositions or novel materials. Zeolite crystal formation involves numerous interactions among charged species, typically resulting in imperfect (host) lattices characterized by intrinsic surface charges and a lot of extra-framework charged species (guests). Control over the crystallization pathway via electric fields can be viewed as an additional external degree of freedom in zeolite synthesis. In this review, we explore the current challenges in zeolite synthesis and discuss the sources of physical interactions both during synthesis and in post-synthesis processes. Initially, a comprehensive theory is developed to address the effects of various electric fields on nucleation, crystallization, and zeolite crystals, drawing on existing literature on the crystallization of organic and inorganic materials under electric fields. We then critically assess the application of electric-field-based controls in bulk zeolite synthesis, zeolite film deposition, and post-treatment, emphasizing the effects of the electric field and the kinetic and thermodynamic processes involved in zeolite and zeolite film formation. Finally, we summarize the key findings of our exploration and provide insights for researchers working not only on zeolite synthesis but also on organic and inorganic electrocrystallization more broadly. We also discuss the challenges associated with configuring electric fields for hydrothermal synthesis.