Layer-by-layer preparation of zeolite coatings of nanosized crystals

In this contribution a new approach for preparation of zeolite films is described. Layer-by-layer self-assembly technique was employed for the preparation of zeolite coatings on negatively charged polystyrene beads, The procedure consists of two basic steps. In the first the beads were surface modified in order to facilitate adsorption of zeolite nanocrystals. A monolayer of crystals are then adsorbed on the bead surface, The number of deposition cycles control the thickness of zeolite coatings. Following this approach zeolite coatings of LTA, FAU, BEA and MFI type zeolites were prepared. Zeolite/polystyrene composites and the corresponding hollow zeolite spheres were characterized by SEM, TEM, X-ray diffraction, FTIR and thermogravimetric analyses. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.