Structure and Catalytic Characterization of a Second Framework Al(IV) Site in Zeolite Catalysts Revealed by NMR at 35.2 T

Ultrahigh field ²⁷Al{¹H} 2D correlation NMR experiments demonstrate that at least two framework Al(IV) sites with hydroxyl groups can exist in acidic zeolite catalysts in their dehydrated and catalytically active states. In addition to the known Al(IV) at the framework bridging acid site (BAS), a new site created by a second tetrahedral Al atom and its hydroxyl group protons in zeolite HZSM-5 is clearly resolved at 35.2 T field strengths, enabled by recently developed series-connected hybrid (SCH) magnet technology. Coupled with computational modeling, extensive ²⁷Al MQMAS experiments at multiple field strengths, and ¹H MAS NMR experiments, these data indicate that this second tetrahedrally coordinated Al site (denoted Al(IV)-2) experiences an increased chemical shift and unique quadrupolar parameters relative to the BAS in both dehydrated and hydrated states. These new experimental data, supported by computational and catalytic reaction work, indicate that the second site arises from partially bonded framework (SiO)_4-n-Al(OH)_n species that significantly increase catalyst reactivity in benzene hydride-transfer and n-hexane cracking reactions. Al(IV)-2 sites result either from framework crystallization defects or from incomplete postsynthetic hydrolysis of a framework Al, prior to the formation of extraframework Al. Populations of this second acidic proton site created by the Al(IV)-2 species are shown to be controlled via postsynthetic catalyst treatments, should be general to different catalyst structures, and significantly enhance catalyst reactivity in the cited probe reactions when they are present. The results herein communicate the highest magnetic field strength data on active zeolite catalyst structures to date and enable for the first time the detection of Al and H association on a dry HZSM-5 catalyst, i.e., under conditions representative of typical end-use processes.