Hierarchical H-ZSM-5 Zeolites for the Synthesis of 1,5-Benzodiazepines: Effects of Porosity on Catalytic Performance
摘要
This study investigates how the synthesis method for hierarchical H-ZSM-5 zeolites affects their catalytic activity and product selectivity in the condensation of o-phenylenediamine with ketones (acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, 2,4-pentanedione, and acetophenone). Samples with enhanced porosity were prepared using two different procedures: (1) treatment of a microporous ZSM-5 zeolite with alkali (H-ZSM-5a) followed by acid (H-ZSM-5aa); and (2) direct synthesis of a granulated ZSM-5 zeolite (H-ZSM-5h). The H-ZSM-5h granular zeolite exhibited superior catalytic performance in the reaction of 1,2-phenylenediamine with acetone, achieving 94% conversion and 83% selectivity. This is attributable to its extensive meso/macroporosity, high total acidity (740 μmol/g), and optimal proportion of strong acid sites (43%)—properties that favor rapid diffusion and prevent the accumulation of intermediates. Under the conditions studied, the reaction proceeded via an imine route rather that an aldol route (through mesityl oxide). Acetone afforded the highest target product yield (87%).