Size-Selective Oxidation of Aldehydes with Zeolite Encapsulated Gold Nanoparticles

Here, we report a synthesis and catalytic study of hybrid materials comprised of 1-3 nm sinter-stable Au nanoparticles in MFI-type zeolites. An optional post-treatment in aqua regia effectively remove Au from the external surfaces. The size-selective aerobic aldehyde oxidation verifies that the active Au is accessible only through the zeolite micropores.