Zeolites possess the unique ability to act as shape-selective catalysts due exclusively to their mic — Surface Chemistry Chemistry Question
Question
Zeolites possess the unique ability to act as shape-selective catalysts due exclusively to their microporous, honeycomb-like $3D$ network structures. The functional pore size of these critical cavities generally varies within a highly specific range. What is the standard upper limit of the pore size of typical catalytic zeolites in picometers ($\text{pm}$)?
💡 Solution & Explanation
The catalytic reactions occurring inside zeolites depend strictly upon the precise dimensions of their internal pores and cavities. Generally, the size of these pores is rigidly constrained between $260\text{ pm}$ and $740\text{ pm}$. Thus, only molecules small enough to enter and exit this $740\text{ pm}$ upper limit can participate in the reaction.