Hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolite with enhanced catalytic activity for alkylation of phenol with tert-butanol

Abstract

Using polyethylene glycol as a mesoporous soft template, a series of hierarchically porous ZSM-5 zeolites were prepared. X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption, and transmission electron microscopy results demonstrated that the resultant materials contained a micro–mesoporous structure. Since the existence of mesoporous structure favors the diffusion of large molecular reactants and products, the phenol conversion and selectivity to 2,4-Di-TBP on the hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolite can be improved for the alkylation of phenol with tert-butanol.