The ammonia selective catalytic reduction activity of copper-exchanged small-pore zeolites

The NH3-SCR activity of the small-pore zeolites, Cu-SSZ-13, Cu-SSZ-16, and Cu-SAPO-34, is investigated using a high-throughput reactor system. These copper exchanged small-pore zeolites have high SCR activity between 150 and 500 °C and are shown to be much more hydrothermally stable than the medium-pore zeolite, Cu-ZSM-5. The degree of copper exchange, the dimensionality of the framework, and heteroatom framework substitution all impact the SCR activity and hydrothermal stability of the materials. Of the small-pore zeolites tested, Cu-SSZ-13 and Cu-SAPO-34 display superior SCR performance, both before and after high-temperature hydrothermal treatment.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights▶ Copper-exchanged small-pore zeolites perform much better than Cu-ZSM-5. ▶ An optimal copper loading exists providing both high SCR activity and stability. ▶ Changing the heteroatom in the framework affects the hydrothermal stability. ▶ Cu-SSZ-13 and Cu-SAPO-34 show exceedingly high NH3-SCR activity.