Multiple Zeolite Structures from One Ionic Liquid Template

This study reports the use of 1‐butyl‐3‐methyl imidazolium methanesulfonate ionic liquid as a template in the synthesis of zeolites. It is found that the silicon source determines the formation of beta (BEA), mordenite framework inverted (MFI), or analcime (ANA) zeolites. Depending on this source, different preorganized complexes are obtained that drive the formation of the different zeolite structures. In the presence of ethanol, the ionic liquid form preorganized complexes that drive the formation of MFI. In its absence, BEA is obtained. Whereas, the large amount of sodium present when using sodium metasilicate leads to ANA formation. A molecular simulation study of the relative stability of the template‐framework system and location of the template provides further insight into the mechanism of synthesis. Driven to develop: Three different zeolite families were synthesized by using a short‐chain alkylimidazolium ionic liquid as the template (see figure). The importance of the silicon source, chemical environment, and the template‐gel components in driving the formation of the different zeolite structures are demonstrated by a molecular simulation study and experimental techniques.