Conclusions
In summary, multiple-layer and mono-layer MWW zeolite nanosheets were fabricated through the dual template synthesis strategy with conventional HMI and long chain surfactants, in terms of multi-layered MWW thickness or single-unit-cell thickness along the c -axis with a large number of exposed Brønsted acid sites. This strategy works well on a layered MWW zeolite system that simultaneously integrates exposed Brønsted acid sites and shape-selectivity, which exhibits excellent catalytic activity and selectivity towards 2-LAB in the alkylation between benzene with 1-dodecene. Mechanistic insights are provided that the superior catalytic performance originates from the raised accessible Brønsted acid sites, enhanced molecular diffusion and solid interactions between adsorbate and 12-MR pockets on the exterior surface. From our investigation, it’s clear that in order to achieve higher 1-dodecene conversion with MWW zeolite nanosheets system, a modification of the MWW nanosheets to allow i) delamination of layered MWW zeolites into the single-unit-cell nanosheet, ii) assembling the single-unit-cell nanosheets into ordered multilamellar arrangement and iii) precise control of Al species distribution in discrepant T sites must be found. Therefore, our present work lays the foundation for catalysts design in the future to fulfill this task, but our study already produces regularly spaced MWW zeolite nanosheets with harmonic Al distribution, representing an important finding.