Synthesis of zeolite beta using silica gel as a source of SiO2

The feasibility of synthesising pure zeolite beta in high yields using silica gel as the source of SiO₂ is demonstrated. The phase-purity and yield of beta is enhanced by using silica gels with high surface area. The influence of various synthesis parameters (Si/Al ratio, alkalinity, dilution level, concentration of the organic base, etc.) on the kinetics of synthesis as well as the quality and yield of the zeolite have been investigated. A correlation between XRD crystallinity of the samples with varying degrees of crystallinity and that estimated from framework IR spectroscopy, differential thermal analysis and adsorption of n-hexane is demonstrated. The dependence of the yield of zeolite beta on SiO₂/Al₂O₃ ratio of the gel is also reported. The results of the present study indicate the feasibility of a cheaper route for the manufacture of zeolite beta.