A method
for the introduction of trace Sn atoms into zeolite Y
to impart a large mesoporous pore volume is proposed, whereby the
mesoporous pore volume, framework SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio, and crystal size were controlled by varying
the Sn content. Characterization of the zeolite samples by a range
of analytical techniques demonstrated that Sn entered the zeolite
framework and produced superior mesopores during subsequent steam
treatment, with an increased mesoporous pore volume of up to 50% being
achieved compared with that of the ultrastable Y (USY) zeolite. In
the catalytic cracking of 1,3,5-triisopropylbenzene, the reactivity
of the Sn-containing zeolite Y differed significantly from that of
USY. In addition, the Sn-containing zeolite Y exhibited a higher activity
and a lower deactivation tendency than USY. Overall, the presented
results indicate that this method of introducing mesopores by presetting
the unstable sites in the framework of zeolite Y can have a positive
influence in the preparation of mesoporous Y zeolites.