Organic template-free synthesis of ZSM-5 zeolite particles using rice husk ash as silica source

ZSM-5 zeolite particles were synthesized through in-situ extraction of silica from rice husk ash in the absence of organic template by a simple hydrothermal condition at 150 °C/72–96 h. The powders were characterized by XRD, TGA, DTA, FTIR, N2 physisorption studies, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Crystallization of ZSM-5 started at 150 °C/72 h. The vibration bands at around 540 and 1220 cm−1 indicated the presence of characteristic double 5-ring of ZSM-5. The BET surface area and pore volume increased with increase in synthesis time from 72 to 96 h at 150 °C. FESEM images showed coffin-shaped morphology of ZSM-5 particles.