Sustainable route for the synthesis of SAPO-34 zeolites

Abstract In this work, a sustainable route to synthesize SAPO-34 zeolite is reported. Hydrothermal method was carried out using sand and aluminum cans as silicon and aluminum sources, respectively. Morpholine and dipropylamine were used as structure directing agents (SDA). Zeolite SAPO-34 was found being preferred the structure like chabazite by virtue of gases separation. This sustainable route to obtain SAPO-34 zeolites opens up opportunities to assess alternative silicon and aluminum sources to reduce costs and environmental impacts. Furthermore, the process is complementary and adaptable to fabricate inorganic SAPO-34 membranes for gas separation uses.