Catalytic cracking is a cornerstone of modern petroleum refining, converting heavy hydrocarbons into high-value products like gasoline, diesel, and light olefins. Traditional catalysts, such as Y zeolites and ZSM-5, face limitations in coke resistance and selectivity for small-molecule products. ZSM-35 zeolite, with its FER-type framework composed of intersecting 8-membered and 10-membered rings, offers a promising alternative due to its:
This review synthesizes recent advancements in ZSM-35’s catalytic cracking performance, emphasizing structural-property relationships and industrial relevance.
ZSM-35’s FER framework features two perpendicular channels:
This dual-pore system enhances selectivity for light olefins (C₂–C₄) and branched isomers (e.g., isobutane) while suppressing coke precursors like polyaromatic hydrocarbons.
Compared to ZSM-5 (10-membered ring channels only), ZSM-35’s intersecting pores reduce residence time of reaction intermediates, minimizing secondary cracking and coke deposition. For instance, in diesel catalytic cracking, ZSM-35 achieves:
ZSM-35’s acidity arises from framework aluminum (Brønsted acid, B-acid) and extra-framework metal ions (Lewis acid, L-acid). B-acid sites are critical for cracking reactions, while excessive L-acid sites promote coke formation.
Higher Si/Al ratios (e.g., Si/Al = 70) decrease acid site density but improve thermal stability and anti-coking performance. In diesel cracking: