New Insight into Seeding Process Leading to Improved Zeolitic Acidity and Surface Properties for Its Catalytic Application in Propane Aromatization

•ZSM-5 zeolites were synthesized with the aid of Silicalite-1 seed.•Seeding decreased the particle size and formed plenty of stacking mesopore.•Seeding lowered the bulk acid density and generated an aluminum-rich surface.•Better Zn distribution was obtained with much more (ZnOH)+ active sites.•Propane aromatization stability was improved with no obvious internal coke.