Synthesize and characterization of ZIF-8/NaP zeolite composites as a stable acid-base catalyst for organic reactions

Two ZIF-8/NaP zeolite nanocomposites were synthesized through two different methods by adding ZIF-8 or its precursors on the zeolite mother gel and subsequently characterized. The preparation of a micro-meso structure catalyst with strong acid sites was confirmed. The obtained composites were used for esterification reaction of acetic acid by four different alcohols and aldol condensation of benzaldehyde derivatives 2-X and 4-X to evaluate catalytic activities and compare synthesis methods on the applications. The results show that ZIF-8/NaP composite catalyst brings 94.7% and 91.4% efficiency for esterification and aldol condensation reactions, respectively. This catalyst leads to stabilize the structure of ZIF-8 and increase the stability of ZIF-8 in acidic media.