Cu-ZSM-5 Zeolite Catalyst
Cu-ZSM-5 is the copper-exchanged form of the ZSM-5 zeolite (MFI framework). Copper ions introduce redox functionality that makes the material active for NOx decomposition and reduction, VOC oxidation, and selective oxidation reactions at moderate temperatures. It remains an important research and industrial catalyst, and the historical benchmark against which newer SCR zeolites are measured.
What is Cu-ZSM-5?
Cu-ZSM-5 is produced by copper exchange of ZSM-5, typically from the H- or NH₄-form. The exchanged copper exists as isolated ions and small clusters at exchange sites, providing the redox sites that drive oxidation and DeNOx chemistry. The MFI framework contributes shape selectivity, hydrothermal stability, and a tunable Si/Al ratio for controlling exchange capacity and hydrophobicity.
Key Applications
| Application | Function | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DeNOx / SCR | NOx reduction with NH₃ or hydrocarbons | High activity at 300-500 °C |
| VOC oxidation | Complete oxidation of hydrocarbons to CO₂ + H₂O | Active at moderate temperatures |
| Selective oxidation | Partial oxidation of hydrocarbons | Research and specialty duty |
| NO decomposition | Direct NO → N₂ + O₂ | Classic Cu-ZSM-5 chemistry |
Cu-ZSM-5 vs Cu-SSZ-13
| Property | Cu-ZSM-5 | Cu-SSZ-13 |
|---|---|---|
| Framework | MFI (10-MR) | CHA (8-MR cages) |
| Copper stabilisation | Moderate | Excellent (cage confinement) |
| Hydrothermal stability | Good to ~650 °C | Excellent to 800 °C+ |
| SCR low-temperature activity | Good | > 90% at 200 °C |
| Best for | Research, VOC oxidation, moderate-temp DeNOx | Mobile diesel SCR |
Copper ions in Cu-ZSM-5 migrate and agglomerate into inactive CuO particles when exposed to temperatures above ~650 °C — the limitation that led mobile diesel SCR to adopt Cu-SSZ-13, whose CHA cages protect copper against migration. For applications without extreme thermal cycling, Cu-ZSM-5 remains a capable and cost-effective catalyst.
Available Grades
| Grade | SiO₂/Al₂O₃ | Cu Loading | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cu-ZSM-5-25 | 25 | 2-4 wt% | DeNOx, moderate-temperature SCR |
| Cu-ZSM-5-50 | 50 | 2-3 wt% | VOC oxidation, balanced activity |
| Cu-ZSM-5-100 | 100 | 1.5-3 wt% | VOC oxidation, higher hydrophobicity |
Precursor H-, NH₄-, and Na-form ZSM-5 is available for customers performing their own copper exchange — see the ZSM-5 product hub. When requesting a sample, specify your target reaction, operating temperature, and desired Cu loading and Si/Al ratio.
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