Hierarchical and Embryonic Zeolites Smart Supports for Sustainable Catalysis

The increasing concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is a pressing global issue, prompting research into its conversion into sustainable products. Catalysts are central to enabling these transformations, and zeolites have emerged as promising materials in this field. To improve catalytic efficiency, attention has shifted towards structures with larger surface areas and more accessible active sites, leading to the development of nanoscale zeolites and, more recently, embryonic zeolites. Unlike conventional zeolites, embryonic zeolites are only partially formed, lacking complete crystallinity but displaying short-range ordering. This distinctive structure offers more open pores and enhanced accessibility to active sites, thereby reducing diffusion limitations and improving catalytic performance. The present work investigates synthetic pathways for both crystalline and embryonic zeolites and assesses their effectiveness in carbon dioxide methanation, employing low loadings of nickel and ruthenium as active metals. The study highlights the potential of embryonic zeolites in advancing eco-friendly catalytic processes.