Atomic-scale analysis of long-term degraded zeolite 13X

Abstract

Zeolites consist of an aluminosilicate framework that incorporates cations such as Na, Mg, etc., and contains micropores capable of sieving molecules. However, prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to atomic-scale deformation such as dealumination and cation redistribution, which significantly affects the adsorption performance of the zeolite. Despite its significance, the atomic-scale mechanisms of water-induced degradation remain poorly understood. Herein, the degradation of zeolite 13X by moisture is examined via quantitative and statistical clustering analyses in atom probe tomography. Na clustering is identified as a critical factor that accelerates structural degradation in parallel with dealumination, even at room temperature. These findings highlight the importance of optimizing Si/Al ratios to mitigate moisture-induced damage and provide practical guidance for improving the stability and performance of zeolites in industrial applications.