Fabrication and pressure drop behavior of novel monolithic structures with zeolitic architectures

Novel monolithic structures with zeolitic [sodalite (SOD), Linde-Type A (LTA) and faujasite (FAU)-type] architectures having well-defined pores, cages and channels are successfully fabricated by selective electron beam melting (SEBM) using Ti-6Al-4V powder. The open porosities of the monoliths are 92.87% (SOD), 94.64% (LTA) and 95.67% (FAU), respectively. Although the porosity of the FAU monolith is relatively higher than the other two monoliths (SOD and LTA), but exhibits higher normalized pressure drop due to its inherent pore tortuosity (supercages interconnected by 12-ring channels in all three dimensions). This represents a significant step forward for the design and development of innovative structured supports and/or reactors with desired porosities and pressure drop characteristics. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.