Synthesis and Characterization of Faujasite/ZIF-8 Composite by One-Pot Method, Used as a Catalyst for Esterification and Aldol Condensation Reaction

In this research work, we were able to composite Faujasite type zeolite and ZIF-8 metal–organic framework using two different ways to improve the chemical stability of ZIF-8. In these methods, the arrangement of introducing Zn and 2-Methylimidazole as parent material to synthesis of ZIF-8 to zeolite were changed. In addition, the composites were prepared at room temperature under green chemistry conditions. The structure of Fauj/ZIF-8 nanocomposites were confirmed by FT-IR, XRD, SEM, BET, MAP, TGA, NH3-TPD and ICP analysis after synthesis. The Fauj/ZIF-8 nanocomposites with high acidity and micro-meso structure showed good stability. Two prepared composites were used as catalysts in organic reactions including esterification of acetic acid by four different alcohols and aldol condensation of benzaldehyde derivatives 2-X and 4-X. The results of these catalytic applications show that the use of nanocomposites yields is above 90% with good reusability under solvent free condition for esterification and aldol condensation reactions.