Mesoporosity – a new dimension for zeolites

Frameworks of precisely defined pores with diameters matching the size of small molecules endow crystalline zeolites with valuable size- and shape-selectivity. Being important selective adsorbers and separators, zeolites are also indispensable as solid acids in size-selective catalysis. However, despite being extremely beneficial, micropores impose restrictions on the mass transport of reactants, especially when bulky molecules are involved. The prospect to boost the catalytic power of zeolites and to extend their applications into new areas has prompted numerous efforts to synthesize mesoporous zeolitic materials that combine diffusional pathways on two different size scales. Our tutorial review will…