X-ray mapping as a tool to characterize mixtures of large zeolite ZSM-5 crystals with amorphous impurities

During the synthesis of large crystals of zeolite ZSM-5 in aluminum-rich gels, two phases formed. Instead of large crystals of aluminum-rich zeolite ZSM-5, ZSM-5 crystals with a relatively low aluminum content and amorphous silica–alumina particles crystallized simultaneously. This was demonstrated using X-ray mapping and NMR spectroscopy.