Mesoporosity – a new dimension for zeolites

Frameworks of precisely defined pores with diameters matching the size of small molecules endow crystalline zeolites with valuable size- and shape-selectivity. Being important selective adsorbers and separators, zeolites are also indispensable as solid acids in size-selective catalysis. However, despite being extremely beneficial, micropores impose restrictions on the mass transport of reactants, especially when bulky molecules are involved. The prospect to boost the catalytic power of zeolites and to extend their applications into new areas has prompted numerous efforts to synthesize mesoporous zeolitic materials that combine diffusional pathways on two different size scales. Our tutorial review will introduce the reader to this exciting recent development in zeolite science. We will give a general overview of the diverse strategies on how to implement a secondary pore system in zeolites. We will distinguish top-down from bottom-up and template-assisted from 'template-free' procedures. Advantages and limitations of the different methods will also be addressed.