Abstract
Formation of iron oxide nanoparticles within the internal cages of Na–Y zeolites was investigated. Sodium ions within the zeolites were replaced with iron(II) ions. Elemental composition studies showed a significant amount of iron in the exchanged sample. NaOH and dropwise additions of H2O2 at 60 °C triggered formation of zeolite–iron oxide systems. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns showed diminishing zeolite peaks along with evolution of peaks corresponding to γ-Fe2O3 and α-Fe2O3 with increasing NaOH concentration. Morphological changes from hexagonal-shaped zeolite to clusters of fine particles were observed under scanning electron microscope. Particles with about 15-nm diameter were detected by transmission electron microscopy. γ-Fe2O3 crystallites of 13.4 nm were determined from the broadening of XRD peaks. The magnetization curves of samples (precipitated using NaOH with concentrations of 2.0 M and above) showed absence of hysteresis and passed through the origin, indicating the particles are superparamagnetic. Gas adsorption–desorption measurement of the system precipitated with 2.0 M NaOH revealed a 26% increase in its specific surface area, indicating the presence of nanometer-sized particles within the zeolites.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
