Beta Zeolite Applications

Beta zeolite (BEA framework) is a large-pore zeolite catalyst with a three-dimensional 12-membered ring channel system, making it one of the most versatile catalyst options for reactions involving bulky molecules. Use this supplier guide to match Beta zeolite applications with TDS, COA, and sample requirements.

Hydrocracking

Beta zeolite’s 3D 12-MR channel system provides continuous access for bulky polycyclic aromatics and heavy branched paraffins — molecules that diffuse more slowly in FAU supercages. This makes Beta the preferred choice when hydrocracking heavy feedstocks where diffusion constraints limit conversion. The strong acidity of low-Si/Al Beta (20-50) provides the cracking activity needed for heavy feed conversion.

See the Beta for Hydrocracking application note and the Hydrocracking solutions page for detailed guidance.

Alkylation

Beta zeolite is widely used in aromatic alkylation reactions including ethylbenzene and cumene production. Its 3D channel system handles liquid-phase alkylation with less diffusion limitation than FAU-type zeolites. The accessible pores accommodate both aromatic and olefin reactants while the strong Brønsted acid sites drive the alkylation reaction. Beta’s hydrophobic high-silica variants can operate in aqueous reaction environments where other zeolites would be inhibited by water adsorption.

See the Alkylation solutions page for more information.

Isomerization

Beta zeolite serves aromatic isomerization, particularly xylene isomerization to produce p-xylene and ethylbenzene conversion to benzene. Its 12-MR 3D pores provide access for substituted aromatics, and its strong acidity drives the isomerization reactions at commercial rates. SiO2/Al2O3 ratios of 20-50 are typical for these applications.

See the Isomerization solutions page.

SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction)

Cu- and Fe-exchanged Beta zeolite is used in SCR applications where NOx reduction is required at higher temperatures (350-600 C) or in the presence of sulfur-containing exhaust. While Cu-SSZ-13 has largely supplanted Cu-Beta in mobile diesel SCR due to superior hydrothermal stability, Cu-Beta and Fe-Beta remain in use for:

• Stationary SCR where sulfur tolerance is critical
• High-temperature SCR applications (> 550 C)
• Applications requiring larger-pore access for specific exhaust compositions

See the SCR solutions page and the Best Zeolite for SCR guide.

VOC Removal

High-Si/Al Beta zeolite (SAR 80-200+) is effective for VOC adsorption, particularly for larger VOC molecules that are size-excluded from ZSM-5’s 10-MR pores. Multi-ring aromatics, substituted benzenes, and higher-molecular-weight solvents can access Beta’s 12-MR pores. See the VOC Removal solutions page for application details.

Applications Overview Table

For detailed specifications, see the Beta Zeolite specifications page. Request a sample with your target application.