An Efficient Zr-ZSM-5-st Solid Acid Catalyst for the Polyol Esterification Reaction

In this study, Zr active species were implanted into a ZSM-5 zeolite framework to form a solid acid catalyst through steam treatment and the liquid-solid isomorphous substitution process. The as-synthesized Zr-ZSM-5-st catalyst ensured excellent esterification of trimethylolpropane and fatty acids (FAs) to achieve a polyol ester production yield of 94.41%. Combined with N-2 physisorption, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy mapping, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, NH3 temperature-programmed desorption, and inductively coupled mass plasma spectroscopy were conducted. The results revealed that the excellent performance of Zr-ZSM-5-st catalyst could be attributed to the enhanced acidity and the developed surface area and pore structure.

Automated summary

Zr active species were implanted into a ZSM-5 zeolite framework through steam treatment and the liquid-solid isomorphous substitution process, forming a solid acid catalyst. The Zr-ZSM-5-st catalyst showed excellent performance in the esterification reaction of trimethylolpropane and fatty acids, with a production yield of 94.41%. The enhanced acidity, increased surface area, and developed pore structure were found to be the key factors contributing to the catalyst's superior performance.