A continuous-flow platform for highly-efficient production of mesoporous zeolites

Synthetic zeolites are commercially important materials, primarily used as catalysts in a wide range of chemical industries such as petrochemical and environmental catalytic processes. Zeolites are crystalline, microporous (500 °C). Diffusion limitation imposed by micropores is one of the major causes of low activity and/or deactivation in zeolites, especially for reactions involving bulky molecules. In industry, mesoporosity can be created in zeolites via ‘top-down’ (i.e. post-synthesis treatments) methods, offering practical yet effective solutions to realise the faster transport phenomena within the mesoporous zeolites and the greater catalytic activity compared to the conventional zeolites. Although they are effective and practical, post-synthetic methods such as steaming and acid/base leaching are energy intensive. In this PhD project, we will built on our recent patented method to explore the possibility of developing continuous-flow treatment strategies of super-fast modification of porosity of various type zeolites (FAU, MOR, MFI, etc.), as well as acidity, for making industrially important zeolites with mesoporosity at scales. The candidate is expected to have skills/experience in continuous-flow systems, especially dealing with solid-liquid systems, for the development of the proposed systems.

For UK/EU applicants: Applicants should have or expect to achieve a first class degree in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry or Materials Sciences.

For Overseas applicants: Applicants are expected to be graduates (major in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry or Materials Sciences) from top national ranked universities (prefer top 100 world ranked universities) with excellent GPA and strong publications at Masters level.