Three-Dimensional Transmission Electron Microscopic Observations of Mesopores in Dealuminated Zeolite Y

Abstract

Mesopore formation in zeolite Y upon hydrothermal treatment results in cavities inside the zeolite crystals rather than cylindrical pores that connect the external surface to the interior of the crystal. This conclusion follows from the three-dimensional visualization of the mesopores. The three images below show the development of these micropores upon extended hydrothermal treatment.