5.21Describe some features of catalysis by zeolites.
Zeolites have a honey-comb like structure, which makes them shape-selective catalysts.
They are microporous aluminosilicates with a three-dimensional network of silicates in which some silicon atoms are replaced by aluminium atoms giving Al–O–Si framework.
The reactions taking place in zeolites depend upon the size and shape of reactant and product molecules as well as upon the pores and cavities of the zeolites.
Zeolites are commonly used in the petrochemical industry. For example zeolite catalyst used in the petroleum industry is ZSM-5. It converts alcohols directly into gasoline (petrol) by dehydrating them to give a mixture of hydrocarbons.
