The beta-Zeolite Synthesized by Dry-Gel Conversion Method Without the Use of Sodium Hydroxide: Characterization and Catalytic Behaviors

The nano-sized beta-zeolites were synthesized first time by dry gel conversion (DGC) method without the use of sodium hydroxide. Resultant beta-zeolites had particle size of 35-80 nm with SiO2/Al2O3 ratios in the range of 25-400. They had BET surface areas in the range of 290-750 m(2) . g(-1) and the external surface area of 41-283 m(2). g(-1): cumulative surface areas were in the range of 420-1050 m(2) . g(-1). beta-Zeolites modified with alkaline earth and rare earth metal species, such as Ca, La, and Ce, were synthesized by the introduction of these metal nitrates during the dry-gel preparation. To evaluate catalytic properties of these zeolites, they were applied for the isomerization/cracking of hexane and the phenol octylation. The influence of Ca, La, and Ce oxides on the calalytic properties was also examined.