Morphology and Microstructural Optimization of Zeolite Crystals Utilizing Polymer Growth Modifiers for Enhanced Catalytic Application

Rationally controlling the morphology and microstructure of the zeolite crystals could play a significant role in optimizing their physicochemical properties and catalytic performances for application in various zeolite-based heterogeneous catalysis processes. Among different controlling strategies, the utilization of zeolite growth modifiers (ZGMs), which are molecules capable of altering the anisotropic rates of crystal growth, is becoming a promising approach to modulate the morphology and microstructural characteristics of zeolite crystals. In this mini-review, we attempt to provide an organized overview of the recent progress in the usage of several easily available polymer-based growth modifiers in the synthesis of some commonly used microporous zeolites and to reveal their roles in controlling the morphology and various physicochemical properties of zeolite crystals during hydrothermal synthesis processes. This review is expected to provide some guidance for deeply understanding the modulation mechanisms of polymer-based zeolite growth modifiers and for appropriately utilizing such a modulation strategy to achieve precise control of the morphology and microstructure of zeolite crystals that display optimal performance in the target catalytic reactions.