Integration of zeolite@metal-organic framework: a composite catalyst for isopropyl alcohol conversion to aromatics

In this study, a Zn-based metal-organic framework (MOF)-zeolite composite ZSM-5@IRMOF-1 was synthesized for the alternative production of BTX from isopropyl alcohol (IPA). Incorporation ensured the capacity to tune the Lewis acidity at a framework level and design accessible pore structures, making composites highly attractive to be used as catalysts. The combination of monodispersed HZSM-5 zeolites on and within acidic IRMOF-1 provided the highly selective production of lower aromatics from IPA. The interaction of IPA with catalysts was investigated at different temperatures in a fixed-bed continuous flow reactor. The obtained product was analyzed using a standard test method ASTM D6730 through gas chromatography-detail hydrocarbon analyser. The results indicated that the reaction between IPA and MOF-supported zeolite occurred without substantial participation of MOFs. The maximum aromatic (BTEX) selectivity of 38.2% was achieved among all hydrocarbons at 92.3% carbon conversion. In addition, the gas yield was <20% for this catalyst system. The appropriate density of Bronsted and Lewis acidic sites and hierarchical pore structures provided the composite catalyst with outstanding aromatic selectivity yield and high stability. (c) 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

In this study, a Zn-based MOF-zeolite composite was synthesized for the production of BTX from IPA, showing high selectivity and stability in a fixed-bed reactor. The composites combine monodispersed HZSM-5 zeolites with acidic IRMOF-1 to achieve the desired catalytic performance.