Dependence of zeolite topology on alkane diffusion inside diverse channels

Zeolites have been widely used for the processes of adsorption, separation, and catalysis, which are strongly correlated with molecular diffusion. However, the correlation between pore dimension and diffusion properties has not been systematically investigated so far. In this work, the diffusion properties of alkanes in six zeolites with similar pore sizes but different pore dimension have been examined. It is found that the diffusion coefficients of alkanes in zeolites are 2-5 orders of magnitude smaller than that in gas phase. Moreover, the diffusion of alkanes inside zeolites is sensitive to the pore dimension, and can be differentiated by 1-D straight, 1-D tortuous, and 3-D intersecting channels, based on the derived quantitative correlation between the diffusion behavior and pore dimension. Our work may not only provide deep insights into the effects of pore dimension on diffusion, but also benefits for the future design and practical applications of zeolite catalysts.