Characterization of zeolites as environmental washcoat materials on cordierite ceramics

Abstract

Small engines, such as conventional two-stroke engines used in marine outboards and personal watercraft (PWC), are high polluters relative to their engine size and usage. Porous structures based on zeolites show promising characteristics as wash coat materials on cordierite ceramics for tailpipe exhaust emission control. This study reports the characterization of commercial grades of zeolites (Ammonium form of ZSM-5, Zeolite Y, and Mordenite) and several transition phases of these zeolites aiming at their use as environmental washcoat materials. Thermogravimetry, X-ray diffraction, specific surface area, and electron microscopy were used to characterize the zeolites. ZSM-5 shows high thermal and structural stability compared to the other zeolites investigated. As porogenic and increased active site agents, the transition phases showed a large quantity of meso-macro pores and a variation in the specific surface areas of the zeolites still large enough, which highlights their potential to be used in environmental catalysis.