The Clean Synthesis of Small-Particle TS-1 with High-Content Framework Ti by Using NH4HCO3 and Suspended Seeds as an Assistant.

The synthesis of a TS-1 zeolite with high-content framework Ti and small particles has been developed by adding NH4HCO3 and suspended seeds as an assistant. With the addition of NH4HCO3, the Hofmann decomposition of the tetrapropylammonium cation (TPA+) decreased, and the framework Ti content of the zeolite increased first and then decreased while the particle became larger. With the assistance of suspended seeds, the TS-1 synthesized under a low-alkalinity system possesses small particle size and high-content framework Ti, and it shows the best catalytic activity among the prepared catalysts. Because the decomposition of TPA+ decreased, the mother liquid could be reused in the next run of preparation. Even though the recycled mother liquid was reused five times, all obtained TS-1 samples exhibited similar catalytic performances in propylene epoxidation. This work provides an efficient process for preparing TS-1 with good catalytic performance and reduces the discharge of the waste liquid.