ZSM-5 Applications
ZSM-5 (MFI framework) is the most widely used shape-selective zeolite in industrial chemistry, with applications spanning refining, petrochemicals, and environmental control.
FCC Additives — Propylene and Octane Enhancement
ZSM-5 is the dominant FCC additive worldwide. It selectively cracks low-octane gasoline-range olefins into lighter olefins — primarily propylene — while the Y-zeolite-based base catalyst handles primary cracking. Adding 2-10 wt% ZSM-5 typically increases propylene yield by 2-6 percentage points and raises gasoline research octane by 1-3 numbers.
The 10-MR MFI channels crack C7-C12 linear olefins to C3-C5 olefins. Branched and cyclic molecules cannot enter the pores, so high-octane gasoline components are preserved. Lower Si/Al ratios (20-50) and nano-polycrystal morphology (N-series) are recommended for maximum activity.
See ZSM-5 for FCC Additives and the FCC solutions page.
MTO and MTP
In methanol-to-olefins processes, ZSM-5 provides a higher propylene-to-ethylene ratio compared to SAPO-34, making it the preferred catalyst when propylene is the target product. Typical operating window: 400-550 C, WHSV 1-4 h-1. Si/Al ratios of 50-200 provide the best balance of activity and selectivity. For MTP specifically, the proprietary ZC-MTP-1 formulation is available.
See the MTO and MTP solutions pages.
VOC Removal
High-silica ZSM-5 (Si/Al > 300) is an effective adsorbent for volatile organic compounds in humid air and gas streams. The hydrophobic framework preferentially adsorbs non-polar VOCs over water vapour. Single crystal rod morphology (C-series) provides maximum hydrophobicity for this application.
See the VOC Removal solutions page.
Alkylation
ZSM-5 catalyzes aromatic alkylation with shape selectivity. Its 10-MR channels favor the para-isomer over bulkier ortho- and meta-isomers, a key advantage over large-pore zeolites. See the Alkylation solutions page.
Applications Overview
| Application | Recommended Si/Al | Recommended Morphology |
|---|---|---|
| FCC additives | 20-50 | Nano polycrystal (N30, N60) |
| MTO/MTP | 50-200 | Standard powder or microsphere |
| VOC removal | 300-1000 standard; 1500+ specialty | Confirm crystal morphology by grade |
| Alkylation | 20-100 | Standard or nano polycrystal |
| MTG (methanol-to-gasoline) | 30-60 | Nano polycrystal (N30, N60) |
| Isomer separation | 150-600 | Single crystal rod (C150-C600) |
For detailed grade specifications, see the ZSM-5 specifications page. Request a sample with your target application.
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