Novel process options for the application of zeolites in supercritical fluids and ionic liquids

Supercritical fluids and ionic liquids offer attractive opportunities for modifying and applying zeolites as adsorbents and catalysts. After a brief introduction to the most important properties of these solvents, examples of zeolite applications in supercritical fluids and ionic liquids from the recent literature are discussed. Particular emphasis is put on the influence of reaction media on the processes occurring in the zeolitic pore systems, e.g., during shape-selective conversions in zeolite catalysts. The present potential and future challenges for the application of zeolites in supercritical fluids and ionic liquids are identified. Most attractive process options arise from a combined use of both ionic liquids and supercritical fluids in integrated reaction schemes.