Hollow ZSM-5 zeolite encapsulating Pt nanoparticles: Cage-confinement effects for the enhanced catalytic oxidation of benzene

A zeolitic cage was introduced and rationally fabricated by encapsulating Pt nanoparticles (NPs) in hollow ZSM5, a nanomaterial with a cavity and porous shell, for efficient catalytic oxidation of benzene. The structure and formation of the zeolitic cage were systematically investigated and characterized using transmission electron microscopy, nitrogen sorption investigations, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The obtained hollow 0.2 Pt@ZSM-5 exhibited a comparable low-temperature catalytic activity with 0.5Pt/ZSM-5 with T90 value of 178 degrees C. Various characterization techniques combined with adsorption experiments uncover the tremendous role of the zeolitic cage in the catalytic activity toward benzene oxidation. The porous shell prevented benzene dilution and the acidity originating from the hollow interior of ZSM-5 promoted the storage of benzene, thereby forming a high local concentration of benzene around Pt NPs, resulting in excellent catalytic performance. These findings provide valuable insights into the rational design of efficient catalysts for the catalytic oxidation of volatile organic compounds.

Automated summary

A zeolitic cage was fabricated by encapsulating Pt nanoparticles in hollow ZSM5 and showed excellent catalytic performance in the oxidation of benzene. The hollow Pt@ZSM-5 exhibited comparable catalytic activity with traditional Pt/ZSM-5 at low temperature, showcasing the utilization of the zeolitic cage to enhance catalytic performance.