Production of linear alkylbenzene over Ce containing beta zeolites

Ce encapsulated Beta zeolite was synthesized by a one-pot hydrothermal method with citric acid complexing Ce in the absence of Na species. Additional citric acid can effectively prevent the deposition of Ce species during the hydrothermal synthesis of zeolites, leading to uniform distribution of Ce cluster in the framework of Beta zeolites. Moreover, the sodium-free synthesis system resulted that the Brønsted acid sites were mainly located on the straight channels and external surface of Beta zeolites, improving the utilization of Brønsted acid sites. In addition, Ce encapsulated Beta zeolites showed enhanced activity and robust stability in the alkylation of benzene with 1-dodecene based on the synergistic effect between Ce species and Brønsted acid sites, which pave the way for its practical application in the production of alkylbenzene.