Nanosized EDI-type molecular sieve

Nanosized EDI-type molecular sieve is prepared from aluminosilicate precursor solutions containing tetramethylammonium cations and copper amine complexes [Cu(NH3)4]2+ as templates. The influence of chemical composition and various synthesis parameters on the size and degree of crystallinity of the EDI nanoparticles is investigated. The crystallization of nanosized EDI-type zeolite is shown to be directed by square planar [Cu(NH3)4]2+ complexes used as co-templating species to the tetramethylammonium cations. The single addition of copper cations or ammonia leads to the crystallization of pure nanosized FAU zeolite, whereas the combination of both generates EDI-type microporous nanomaterial. Thus the [Cu(NH3)4]2+ complexes offer new templating functions in addition to the classical quaternary ammonium additives for creation of nanosized molecular sieves.