Targeted Synthesis of Two Super-Complex Zeolites with Embedded Isoreticular Structures

A novel structural coding approach combining structure solution, prediction, and the targeted synthesis of new zeolites with expanding complexity and embedded isoreticular structures was recently proposed. Using this approach, the structures of two new zeolites in the RHO family, PST-20 and PST-25, were predicted and synthesized. Herein, by extending this approach, the next two higher generation members of this family, PST-26 and PST-28, have been predicted and synthesized. These two zeolites have much larger unit cell volumes (422 655 ų and 614 912 ų, respectively) than those of the lower generations. Their crystallization was confirmed by a combination of both powder X-ray and electron diffraction techniques. Aluminate and water concentrations in the synthetic mixture were found to be the two most critical factors influencing the structural expansion of embedded isoreticular zeolites under the synthetic conditions studied herein. Welcome to the family: The targeted synthesis of two new members of the RHO family of zeolites with embedded isoreticular structures, denoted PST-26 and PST-28, is presented. The crystallization of these more complex, higher-generation zeolites was confirmed by a combination of powder X-ray and electron diffraction techniques.