In situ solid-state 1H NMR studies of hydration of the solid acid catalyst ZSM-5 in its ammonium form

Hydration of the ammonium form of the solid acid catalyst ZSM-5 is investigated by applying a technique that has been developed recently for carrying out in situ solid-state NMR studies of adsorption processes. From ¹H MAS NMR spectra recorded as a function of time and temperature during the hydration process, insights are established on the nature of the interaction between the adsorbed water molecules and the ammonium cations in the ZSM-5 material. The change in isotropic chemical shift for the ammonium cations is consistent with the formation of N–H?O hydrogen bonding with the water molecules. Studies of the adsorption of deuterated water, and dehydration of the hydrated material, are also reported.