Transformation of LEV-type zeolite into less dense CHA-type zeolite

Hydrothermal conversion of LEV-type zeolite into CHA-type zeolite occurred in the absence of both an organic structure-directing agent and a seed crystal. The LEV–CHA transformation proceeds from a more dense zeolite (LEV) to a less dense one (CHA). When amorphous aluminosilicate hydrogels were used as starting materials, the CHA-type zeolite was not obtained under the present hydrothermal synthesis conditions. From the fact that the LEV–CHA transformation proceeded at lower alkalinity conditions, it was suggested that locally ordered aluminosilicate species (nanoparts) produced by decomposition/dissolution of the starting LEV-type zeolite contribute to the transformation process. On the other hand, at higher alkalinity than that used for the CHA-type zeolite synthesis, LEV–LTA transformation occurred effectively and selectively. These results suggest that there is a large difference in the structures of nanoparts generated by decomposition/dissolution of the starting zeolite in the LEV–CHA and LEV–LTA transformations.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Hydrothermal conversion of LEV-type zeolite into less dense CHA- and LTA-type zeolites. ► The hydrothermal conversion occurred in the absence of both OSDAs and seed crystals. ► Nanoparts from the starting LEV-type zeolite contributed to the transformation process.