A multi-dimensional quasi-zeolite with 12 × 10 × 7-ring channels demonstrates high thermal stability and good gas adsorption selectivity

Abstract

A novel quasi-zeolite PKU-15, with a rare 3-dimensional structure containing interconnected large (12-ring), medium (10-ring) and small (7-ring) multi-pore channels, was hydrothermally synthesised and characterised. A unique tri-bridging O²⁻ anion is found to be encapsulated in the cage-like (Ge,Si)₁₂O₃₁ building unit and energetically stabilises the PKU-15 framework. The removal of this oxygen atom would convert PKU-15 into a hypothetical zeolite PKU-15H. Thus, PKU-15 can be considered as a unique ‘quasi-zeolite’, which bridges porous germanates and zeolites. Owing to the absence of terminal Ge–OH groups in its structure, PKU-15 shows a remarkably high thermal stability of up to 600 °C. PKU-15 is also the first microporous germanate that exhibits permanent porosity, with a BET area of 428 m² g⁻¹ and a good adsorption affinity toward CO₂.