Post-synthetic preparation of Sn-, Ti- and Zr-beta: a facile route to water tolerant, highly active Lewis acidic zeolites

A two-step procedure for the post-synthetic preparation of Lewis acidic Sn-, Zr- and Ti-zeolite β is reported. Dealumination of a commercially available Al-β zeolite leads to the formation of highly siliceous material containing silanol nests, which can be filled in a second step via the solid-state ion-exchange or impregnation of an appropriate metal precursor. Spectroscopic studies indicate that each metal is subsequently coordinated within the zeolite framework, and that little or no bulk oxides are formed – despite the high metal loadings. The synthesised catalysts demonstrate excellent activity for the isomerisation of glyceraldehyde to dihydroxyacetone, a key model reaction for the upgrading of bio-renewable feedstocks, and the epoxidation of bulky olefins.