A sandwich framework effect on the conversion of cylindrical pore into slit pore and its catalytic application

CO2 is the most prevalent greenhouse gas that traps heat and raises the global temperature. To stabilize or reduce concentrations of this greenhouse gas, it is mandatory to decompose CO2. So we have synthesized AlPO4 and ZnO4-AlPO4 catalysts using tetrapropylammonium hydroxide (TPAOH) as a template. The synthesized catalysts are systematically characterized by physicochemical methods. XRD analysis proved that AlPO4 has a tetrahedral framework. But the ZnO4-AlPO4 has two separate frameworks, such as a novel ZnO4 and AlPO4, in which the ZnO4 framework is sandwiched between the AlPO4 frameworks. As of now, such kind of sandwich framework has not yet been reported. Textural evaluation shows that there is a formation of two types of pores, namely cylindrical (AlPO4) and slit-shaped pore (ZnO4-AlPO4). The conversion of cylindrical pores into slit pores in ZnO4-AlPO4 may be due to the formation of a ZnO4 sandwiched framework in AlPO4. It is confirmed by the BET analysis. The acidity and thermal stability of the materials are confirmed by the TPD and TGA analyses. The acidity of AlPO4 (0.44 mmol/g) may be due to the deposition of Al3+ in the pores and surface of the material. The HR-TEM analysis proved the morphology of the synthesized materials. The synthesized materials are applied for CO2 decomposition. The maximum conversion is reached above 95