# Nanoporosity of MCM-41 Materials and Y-Zeolites Created by Deposition ofTournefortia hirsutissima L. Plant Extract

Authors: Miguel Angel Hernández; Gabriela Itzel Hernández; Roberto Portillo; Martha Alicia Salgado; Fernando Rojas; Vitalii Petranovskii
Journal: Journal of Nanomaterials
 (2017)

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## Abstract

Hybrid materials based on MCM-41 silica and Y-zeolites with a variable Si/Al ratio and an appropriate countercationic composition were prepared by impregnating inorganic substrates with an organic extract. The organic phase was previously characterized by GC-MS and IRTF, while XRD, SEM, TEM, N2-physisorption, and TPD of NH3 were used to analyze the selected inorganic supports. The effect of size- and shape-selectivity was manifested in MCM-41 and Y-zeolites. Texture results confirm that the extract containing relatively large branched organic molecules is deposited in the internal voids of MCM-41 material and on the outer area of Y-zeolites. In the case of Y-zeolites, the results demonstrate the effect of the SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio and countercations on the textural properties of the samples.


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## Body

## 1. Introduction

Nanomaterials such as aluminosilicate zeolites and sponge silicon dioxide are porous substances with well-defined regular pore systems. Zeolites are widely used in the industry for many applications, including catalysis, gas separation, and adsorption [1, 2]. Mesoporous silica nanomaterials are also extensively studied for potential use in various areas [3]. Their proposed applications include medical and biological fields, which attract a great research interest [4, 5]. These nanostructured substrates possess a high porosity and surface area, as well as a large pore volume, together with a uniform and adjustable pore size, which makes them suitable for special applications in biomedical areas [6, 7].For the deposition of organic plant extracts, the loading capacity of traditional materials, such as inorganic oxides or polymer matrixes, is usually not high enough; in addition, trapped organic components cannot be selectively released without difficulties. To achieve high loading and controlled release, nanoporous materials possessing large volumes and regular structures are preferred; no doubt, these requirements are met by Y-zeolites and MCM-41 materials [8, 9]. Their impact on living organisms and the likely toxicity were carefully considered [10, 11].The loading capacity and release of active phases in the nanoporous carrier are determined by a variety of factors, including pore size, shape, connectivity, and host affinity. Microporous and mesoporous materials, such as zeolites and mesoporous silica, become important solids for the delivery of the active phase. The advantages of zeolites and mesoporous silica for biomedical applications include their biocompatibility, a large surface area, and the ability to tune and control their physicochemical properties. For example, Lehman and Larsen [11] mentioned the use and application of porous nanomaterials in the delivery of drugs for the treatment of various diseases. Datt et al. [12] conducted research related to intelligent nanomaterials for medicine. This review reports on the effect of nanostructured materials on the type of toxicity. Colella [13] published a review taking into account the structure, composition, and ion-exchange properties of nanoporous materials, such as clinoptilolite zeolite, for modern therapeutic applications. Pavelić et al. [14] used Ca-exchanged clinoptilolite as a potential adjuvant for the treatment of various cancers. Due to their versatility, zeolites and MCM-41 have acquired great importance for the development of new nanomaterials. Recently, the Sanchez group reported [15] a large group of organic-inorganic hybrid nanomaterials and their applications.The faujasite zeolite (a structure code is FAU, according to the database of the International Zeolite Association, IZA) [16] is a zeolite that has nearly spherical cavities with a diameter of 12 Å connected by windows of 7.2 Å. This structure, as well as the inner and outer surfaces, are shown in Figure 1. Independent of their composition, all faujasites are topologically identical, but they have different properties depending on the Al content in their structure, giving two different materials: type X- or type Y-zeolites. The unit cell of faujasite has 192 tetrahedrally coordinated atoms, which can be Al or Si. Materials with the number of Al atoms between 96 and 77 per unit cell belong to the X-type, and materials with a lower Al content belong to the Y-type. This means that the SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio of X-zeolites is lower than 3, and the faujasites with MR above the value of 3 appear as Y-zeolites [17].Figure 1
Surfaces in Y-zeolites.The discovery of MCM-41 materials containing the hexagonal arrangement of one-dimensional tubular mesopores with a diameter from 20 to 100 Å [17] and a large surface area has opened up new possibilities for the development of molecular sieves of this type, because their high surface areas are very attractive for the development of new adsorbents and catalysts. MCM varieties are relatively stable (thermally, hydrothermally, mechanically, and chemically) and a suitable choice of organic templates and synthesis conditions can create materials with pore diameters suitable for the adsorption of large organic molecules [18–21].In the continuation of our earlier work [22], this paper describes the preparation and characterization of nanoporosity in hybrid materials created after the deposition of the extract of the plantTournefortia hirsutissima L. on the outer surface of Y-zeolites and into the inner nanopores of MCM-41 silica, as well as the possible use of obtained materials in the treatment of diabetic foot.Potential advantages of this study are (i) the development of new hybrid materials by precipitation of the extract of theTournefortia hirsutissima L. on carriers, Y-zeolites and MCM-41 silica materials; (ii) characterizing hybrid materials by various physical chemical methods; and (iii) the study of nanoporosity in these hybrid materials, which have the potential properties of cell regeneration. The experimental study on the preparation of a group of hybrid materials by means of impregnation and the influence of the preparation protocol on the secondary porosity was performed. The organic part of the hybrid materials was characterized by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS), and the inorganic supports were characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), High-Resolution Adsorption (HRADS), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), and Temperature Programmed Desorption (TPD). The textural parameters such as surface area, external surface area, micropore volume, total pore volume, and pore size distribution of the microporous were calculated from the adsorption isotherms. The primary interest of this work is to obtain and analyze the morphological characteristics of nanoporous solids with highly developed surface areas, used as carriers of bioactive phases of organic nature, with the aim of getting a vehicle that allows an efficient and controlled desorption of active ingredients, constituting the organic phase deposited on the surface of such materials.


## 2. Experimental Section

### 2.1. Materials

MCM-41 materials were prepared in the laboratory by hydrothermal synthesis [18]. Commercial Y-zeolites with faujasite structure (FAU topology of the framework, see the WEB site of International Zeolite Association [16] for detailed description) were supplied by Zeolyst International. The faujasites with the compositions in the range of the so-called Y-zeolite, with the same topology of the structure, but with different SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio (MR) in the range from 5.1 up to 30 and in different cationic form (Na+, NH4+, and H+), were selected for this work. These materials and some of their properties presented by the supplier are listed in Table 1. Labeling of samples through text and figures is listed in the last column of Table 1 and includes the type of cation, the structure of the zeolite (Y), and the molar ratio MR, for example, NaY5.1. For as-prepared substrates and for samples after impregnation, characters S (NaY5.1-S) or I (NaY5.1-I), respectively, are added to the label. It should be emphasized that in nominally hydrogen or ammonium forms of Y-zeolites nonetheless some amount of sodium cations is presented (see Table 1). Thermal activation of the inorganic phase substrates was done before impregnation by plant extracts (see Section 2.2.1).Table 1
Y-zeolites supplied by Zeolyst International.
Zeolyst products
SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio
Nominal cation form
Na2O weight%
Unit cell size, Å
Labeling of the samples
CBV-100
5.1
Sodium
13.0
24.65
NaY5.1
CBV-300
5.1
Ammonium
2.8
24.68
NH4Y5.1
CBV-400
5.1
Hydrogen
2.8
24.50
HY5.1
CBV-500
5.2
Ammonium
0.2
24.53
NH4Y5.2
CBV-600
5.2
Hydrogen
0.2
24.35
HY5.2
CBV-720
30
Hydrogen
0.03
24.28
HY30


### 2.2. Methodology

#### 2.2.1. Dispersion and Stabilization of Organic Phase Nanodeposits on Y-Zeolites and MCM-41 Materials

Both Y-zeolites and MCM-41 (5 g) materials were dried at 373 K for 8 h and, afterward, were cooled below 300 K and mixed under stirring with the ethanol extract ofTournefortia hirsutissima L. (2.5 mL). The obtained slurry was stirred for two hours at room temperature. After this, the solvent was evaporated at 393 K.The initial step consists in the preparation, formation, and stabilization of nanodeposits on the surface of Y-zeolite and MCM-41 materials. These processes were carried out by impregnation and heat treatment; these steps were performed using the previously obtained liquor extract ofTournefortia hirsutissima L. in EtOH for 24 h under stirring. Subsequently, the solvent was removed by evaporation at 363 K. Finally, the resultant hybrid materials were stabilized at 423 K.


#### 2.2.2. Characterization of the Substrates and Impregnated Materials

(i)Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of the extract was performed by means of a coupled system of an Agilent Model 7890A gas chromatograph and an Agilent Model 5975 mass spectrometer and has been previously reported [23].(ii)X-ray diffraction (XDR) test samples were performed with a Siemens D500 diffractometer using a Cu Kα radiation (λ=1.54 Å), operating at 40 kV and 30 mA. The samples were previously ground. Crystalline phases were identified with the help of cards supplied by the Joint Committee on Powder Diffraction Standards (JCPDS) and Collection of XRD Patterns for zeolites edited by IZA [24]. Samples were analyzed over a diffraction angle range 2θ = 1–6° for MCM-41 materials and 2θ = 5–65° for Y-zeolites, employing a step size of 0.03° and a time of 6 s.(iii)Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was performed using a JEOL JSM-5300 electron microscope (SEM) employing a tungsten filament operated at 10 kV at 298 K. Photomicrographs of the surface were gotten and the morphology of obtained materials was observed and chemical analyses were performed through energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS).(iv)Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) was performed on TITAN 80 operated at 300 kV.(v)Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses were carried out in a Bruker Vector spectrometer.(vi)N2adsorption isotherms were determined at the boiling temperature of liquid nitrogen (77 K at the 2,150-m altitude of Puebla, Mexico) applying fully automated volumetric instrument (Autosorb1LC, Quantachrome Corp.). This system was previously calibrated with reference adsorbents. Adsorption isotherms were determined in the range of relative pressure, p/p0 from 10−6 to 1; p0 is the saturation N2 pressure and it was continuously recorded throughout the experiment. Prior to the N2 sorption runs, each sample was degassed at 200°C for 20 h under a vacuum of 10−6 mbar. Textural parameters (surface areas and pore volumes) were obtained from the analysis of sorption isotherms by means of (i) the BET [25] equation, (ii) the Langmuir equation [26], (iii) the method of external area [27], and (iv) the Gurvitsch rule [28]. The pore size distribution of the samples under study was obtained from the data, processing the boundary desorption curves through the BJH method [29].(vii)Temperature Programmed Desorption (TPD) of NH3 was used to characterize acid sites on the substrates. This process was carried out by chemisorption of a NH3/He gas mixture at different adsorption temperatures. The instrument used was an Autosorb-1C-MS Quantachrome automatic sorption characterization device.


## 2.1. Materials

MCM-41 materials were prepared in the laboratory by hydrothermal synthesis [18]. Commercial Y-zeolites with faujasite structure (FAU topology of the framework, see the WEB site of International Zeolite Association [16] for detailed description) were supplied by Zeolyst International. The faujasites with the compositions in the range of the so-called Y-zeolite, with the same topology of the structure, but with different SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio (MR) in the range from 5.1 up to 30 and in different cationic form (Na+, NH4+, and H+), were selected for this work. These materials and some of their properties presented by the supplier are listed in Table 1. Labeling of samples through text and figures is listed in the last column of Table 1 and includes the type of cation, the structure of the zeolite (Y), and the molar ratio MR, for example, NaY5.1. For as-prepared substrates and for samples after impregnation, characters S (NaY5.1-S) or I (NaY5.1-I), respectively, are added to the label. It should be emphasized that in nominally hydrogen or ammonium forms of Y-zeolites nonetheless some amount of sodium cations is presented (see Table 1). Thermal activation of the inorganic phase substrates was done before impregnation by plant extracts (see Section 2.2.1).Table 1
Y-zeolites supplied by Zeolyst International.
Zeolyst products
SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio
Nominal cation form
Na2O weight%
Unit cell size, Å
Labeling of the samples
CBV-100
5.1
Sodium
13.0
24.65
NaY5.1
CBV-300
5.1
Ammonium
2.8
24.68
NH4Y5.1
CBV-400
5.1
Hydrogen
2.8
24.50
HY5.1
CBV-500
5.2
Ammonium
0.2
24.53
NH4Y5.2
CBV-600
5.2
Hydrogen
0.2
24.35
HY5.2
CBV-720
30
Hydrogen
0.03
24.28
HY30


## 2.2. Methodology

### 2.2.1. Dispersion and Stabilization of Organic Phase Nanodeposits on Y-Zeolites and MCM-41 Materials

Both Y-zeolites and MCM-41 (5 g) materials were dried at 373 K for 8 h and, afterward, were cooled below 300 K and mixed under stirring with the ethanol extract ofTournefortia hirsutissima L. (2.5 mL). The obtained slurry was stirred for two hours at room temperature. After this, the solvent was evaporated at 393 K.The initial step consists in the preparation, formation, and stabilization of nanodeposits on the surface of Y-zeolite and MCM-41 materials. These processes were carried out by impregnation and heat treatment; these steps were performed using the previously obtained liquor extract ofTournefortia hirsutissima L. in EtOH for 24 h under stirring. Subsequently, the solvent was removed by evaporation at 363 K. Finally, the resultant hybrid materials were stabilized at 423 K.


### 2.2.2. Characterization of the Substrates and Impregnated Materials

(i)Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of the extract was performed by means of a coupled system of an Agilent Model 7890A gas chromatograph and an Agilent Model 5975 mass spectrometer and has been previously reported [23].(ii)X-ray diffraction (XDR) test samples were performed with a Siemens D500 diffractometer using a Cu Kα radiation (λ=1.54 Å), operating at 40 kV and 30 mA. The samples were previously ground. Crystalline phases were identified with the help of cards supplied by the Joint Committee on Powder Diffraction Standards (JCPDS) and Collection of XRD Patterns for zeolites edited by IZA [24]. Samples were analyzed over a diffraction angle range 2θ = 1–6° for MCM-41 materials and 2θ = 5–65° for Y-zeolites, employing a step size of 0.03° and a time of 6 s.(iii)Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was performed using a JEOL JSM-5300 electron microscope (SEM) employing a tungsten filament operated at 10 kV at 298 K. Photomicrographs of the surface were gotten and the morphology of obtained materials was observed and chemical analyses were performed through energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS).(iv)Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) was performed on TITAN 80 operated at 300 kV.(v)Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses were carried out in a Bruker Vector spectrometer.(vi)N2adsorption isotherms were determined at the boiling temperature of liquid nitrogen (77 K at the 2,150-m altitude of Puebla, Mexico) applying fully automated volumetric instrument (Autosorb1LC, Quantachrome Corp.). This system was previously calibrated with reference adsorbents. Adsorption isotherms were determined in the range of relative pressure, p/p0 from 10−6 to 1; p0 is the saturation N2 pressure and it was continuously recorded throughout the experiment. Prior to the N2 sorption runs, each sample was degassed at 200°C for 20 h under a vacuum of 10−6 mbar. Textural parameters (surface areas and pore volumes) were obtained from the analysis of sorption isotherms by means of (i) the BET [25] equation, (ii) the Langmuir equation [26], (iii) the method of external area [27], and (iv) the Gurvitsch rule [28]. The pore size distribution of the samples under study was obtained from the data, processing the boundary desorption curves through the BJH method [29].(vii)Temperature Programmed Desorption (TPD) of NH3 was used to characterize acid sites on the substrates. This process was carried out by chemisorption of a NH3/He gas mixture at different adsorption temperatures. The instrument used was an Autosorb-1C-MS Quantachrome automatic sorption characterization device.


## 2.2.1. Dispersion and Stabilization of Organic Phase Nanodeposits on Y-Zeolites and MCM-41 Materials

Both Y-zeolites and MCM-41 (5 g) materials were dried at 373 K for 8 h and, afterward, were cooled below 300 K and mixed under stirring with the ethanol extract ofTournefortia hirsutissima L. (2.5 mL). The obtained slurry was stirred for two hours at room temperature. After this, the solvent was evaporated at 393 K.The initial step consists in the preparation, formation, and stabilization of nanodeposits on the surface of Y-zeolite and MCM-41 materials. These processes were carried out by impregnation and heat treatment; these steps were performed using the previously obtained liquor extract ofTournefortia hirsutissima L. in EtOH for 24 h under stirring. Subsequently, the solvent was removed by evaporation at 363 K. Finally, the resultant hybrid materials were stabilized at 423 K.


## 2.2.2. Characterization of the Substrates and Impregnated Materials

(i)Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of the extract was performed by means of a coupled system of an Agilent Model 7890A gas chromatograph and an Agilent Model 5975 mass spectrometer and has been previously reported [23].(ii)X-ray diffraction (XDR) test samples were performed with a Siemens D500 diffractometer using a Cu Kα radiation (λ=1.54 Å), operating at 40 kV and 30 mA. The samples were previously ground. Crystalline phases were identified with the help of cards supplied by the Joint Committee on Powder Diffraction Standards (JCPDS) and Collection of XRD Patterns for zeolites edited by IZA [24]. Samples were analyzed over a diffraction angle range 2θ = 1–6° for MCM-41 materials and 2θ = 5–65° for Y-zeolites, employing a step size of 0.03° and a time of 6 s.(iii)Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was performed using a JEOL JSM-5300 electron microscope (SEM) employing a tungsten filament operated at 10 kV at 298 K. Photomicrographs of the surface were gotten and the morphology of obtained materials was observed and chemical analyses were performed through energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS).(iv)Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) was performed on TITAN 80 operated at 300 kV.(v)Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses were carried out in a Bruker Vector spectrometer.(vi)N2adsorption isotherms were determined at the boiling temperature of liquid nitrogen (77 K at the 2,150-m altitude of Puebla, Mexico) applying fully automated volumetric instrument (Autosorb1LC, Quantachrome Corp.). This system was previously calibrated with reference adsorbents. Adsorption isotherms were determined in the range of relative pressure, p/p0 from 10−6 to 1; p0 is the saturation N2 pressure and it was continuously recorded throughout the experiment. Prior to the N2 sorption runs, each sample was degassed at 200°C for 20 h under a vacuum of 10−6 mbar. Textural parameters (surface areas and pore volumes) were obtained from the analysis of sorption isotherms by means of (i) the BET [25] equation, (ii) the Langmuir equation [26], (iii) the method of external area [27], and (iv) the Gurvitsch rule [28]. The pore size distribution of the samples under study was obtained from the data, processing the boundary desorption curves through the BJH method [29].(vii)Temperature Programmed Desorption (TPD) of NH3 was used to characterize acid sites on the substrates. This process was carried out by chemisorption of a NH3/He gas mixture at different adsorption temperatures. The instrument used was an Autosorb-1C-MS Quantachrome automatic sorption characterization device.


## 3. Results and Discussion

### 3.1. GS-MS

The chemical composition and the mass percentage of each of the components presented in the active phase of theTournefortia hirsutissima L. ethanol extract were estimated by GC-MS and have been previously reported [23]. Table 2 summarizes the information of the compounds detected by gas chromatography that exist in higher concentrations, together with their retention times and identification factor for each one of them. This table shows that 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono (2-ethylhexyl) ester (21.04%), γ-sitosterol (16.42%), and 3,7,11,15-tetramethyl-2-hexadecen-1-ol (6.34%) are the three main components, followed by hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester (4.77%), phenol, 2,2′-methylene bis (4.53%), (E)-9-octadecenoic acid ethyl ester (4.11%), and hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (4.08%).Table 2
Principal organic molecule composition of the ethanolic extract ofTournefortia hirsutissima L. as measured by GC-MS.
RTmin
Compound
Formula
M g mol−1
RC%
11.878
3,7,11,15-Tetramethyl-2-hexadecen-1-ol (Phytol)
C20H40O
296
6.34
12.732
Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester
C25H42O2
374
4.08
13.334
Phenol, 2,2′-methylene bis
C13H12O2
200
4.53
13.389
Hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester
C18H36O2
284
4.77
14.998
(E)-9-Octadecenoic acid ethyl ester
C20H38O2
310
4.11
19.804
1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono(2-ethylhexyl) ester
C16H22O4
278
21.04
55.946
γ-Sitosterol
C29H50O
414
16.42
RT: retention time, M: molecular mass, and RC: relative concentration (%) ofTournefortia hirsutissima  L. of ethanolic extract.


### 3.2. X-Ray Diffraction

Diffraction patterns of the materials under study at 2θ = 2–6° for the MCM-41 materials and at 2θ = 5–65° for the Y-zeolites are shown in Figure 2. In the diffraction pattern of MCM-41 materials predominant signals were observed at approximately 2θ = 2°; however, these signals are relatively wide thus manifesting an amorphous character. It appears that higher 2θ values than the usual ones indicate some contraction of the structure of this material. The diffraction patterns of Y-zeolites (JCPDS card 33-1270.) exhibit typical signals of such materials. The predominant peaks appear at 2θ: 6.19°, 15.61°, 18.64°, 20.3°, 23.6°, 26.97°, 31.32°, and 33.99°.Figure 2
XRD patterns of (a) MCM-41 and (b) Y-zeolites.


### 3.3. Scanning Electron Microscopy

The analysis performed on the same sample by using Scanning Electron Microscopy shows Y-zeolite aggregates, as well as thin crystals of cubic form and varying sizes of about 1μm (Figures 3(a) and 3(b)).Figure 3
SEM images of Y-zeolites (a-b) and TEM images of MCM-41 materials synthetic samples with different crystal sizes (c-d).
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)


### 3.4. Transmission Electron Microscopy

TEM analysis was performed for the MCM-41-S specimen; the corresponding micrograph unveiled the presence of well-defined and ordered channels (Figures3(c)-3(d)).


### 3.5. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy

Studies of Y-zeolites indicate that MR ratio remains constant after impregnation; with respect to the abundance of Na2O, the following sequence is set up: NaY5.1 > NH4Y5.1 = HY5.1 > NH4Y5.2 = HY5.2 > HY30, which coincide with the sequence of the provider values (Table 1). It means that ion content is not changed during the treatment. Meanwhile, the size of the unit cell is similar for all Y-zeolites, Table 1.


### 3.6. FTIR

The infrared spectra of theTournefortia Ethanolic Extract (TEE) in solution and with impregnated Y-zeolites and MCM-41 nanomaterials have the following features. The most intense absorptions were observed in the range of (a) 400–1700 cm−1 and (b) 2800–3800 cm−1, Figures 4(a) and 4(b). The infrared spectrum has the following features (cm−1): 3300 typical absorption of C-H stretch in alcohols and phenols; 2900 absorption characteristic of C-H stretch of methylene groups; 1720 typical of C=O stretching vibrations of carbonyl group; 1450 cm−1 of CH2; and 1400 typical of COCH3; other absorption peaks include 1200 cm−1 (OH), 1100 cm−1 (cycloalkane), and 950 cm−1 [23]. The framework vibration bands of Y-zeolite show the spectra below 1200 cm−1 in the regions 750 and 700 cm−1, which are attributed to double ring, symmetric stretching, and asymmetric stretching vibrations, respectively [30].Figure 4
FTIR spectra ofTournefortia Ethanolic Extract (TEE) in solution and with impregnated materials, (a) 400–1700 cm−1 and (b) 2800–3800 cm−1.
(a)
(b)


### 3.7. Analysis of the Adsorption Isotherms

The N2 sorption isotherms at 77 K, that is, relative pressure, p/p0 versus adsorbed volume in cm3 STP per gram of material are shown in Figure 5.Figure 5
N2 adsorption isotherms at 77 K on Y-zeolites and MCM-41 materials: (a) nonimpregnated and (b) impregnated with ethanolic solution.
(a)
(b)These isotherms correspond to the samples before and after being impregnated with the alcoholic extract ofTournefortia hirsutissima L. plant. These sorption isotherms are of Type IV in the IUPAC classification for the MCM-41 substrates. In turn, the N2 sorption isotherms of the Y-zeolites are Type Ia in the same classification [31]. The results of the textural studies of the samples, before (S) and after impregnation (I), are reported in Table 3. It can be observed that a greater adsorption capacity of the MCM-41-S material exists, along with the entire p/p0 range if compared to the case of Y-zeolites. However, when this material has been impregnated with the extract solution, the adsorption capacity for the MCM-41-I material is considerably diminished, since the extract is deposited in the interior of the structure voids, thus blocking the pore cavities of this material. There is a decrease in the available volume by approximately 3.5 times. This behavior may be related to the effect of size selectivity depicted by MCM-41 materials. The textural properties of the samples, before (S) and after impregnation (I), conform to the following order according to their adsorption values.Table 3
Textural parameters of FAU-CBV zeolites and MCM-41 materials determined from N2 adsorption before (S) and after being impregnated (I) with Tournefortia ethanolic extract.
Materials
A
S
B m2 g−1
C
B
A
S
L m2 g−1
A
S
t m2 g−1
V
Σ cm3 g−1
W
0
t cm3 g−1
V
m
e
s
o cm3 g−1
Pore diameterBJH, Å
Before
CBV-100-S
670
−37
1018
38
0.395
0.335
0.06
51, 106
CBV-300-S
601
−55
882
31
0.326
0.291
0.035
CBV-400-S
604
−61
886
84
0.275
0.265
0.010
CBV-500-S
678
−61
994
127
0.414
0.284
0.130
72
CBV-600-S
529
−65
772
101
0.378
0.217
0.161
CBV-720-S
725
−80
1060
121
0.496
0.306
0.190
34
MCM-41-S
1009
52
1185
1009
0.777
0
0.777
24, 34
Impregnated
CBV-100-I
692
−53
1016
38
0.369
0.335
0.034
CBV-300-I
462
−56
680
44
0.267
0.214
0.053
CBV-400-I
604
−61
886
84
0.363
0.265
0.098
36, 103
CBV-500-I
678
−61
994
96
0.414
0.297
0.117
CBV-600-I
526
−65
772
101
0.378
0.217
0.161
36, 47, 151
CBV-720-I
725
−80
1060
124
0.496
0.304
0.192
36
MCM-41-I
286
78
415
286
0.309
0
0.309
36
A
s
B is the specific surface area BET; AsL is the specific surface area Langmuir; Ast is the external surface area t-method; CB is the BET constant; VΣ is the volume adsorbed close to saturation (p/p0 = 0.95), calculated as volume of liquid (Gursvitch rule); W0t is micropore volume calculated by t-plots; Vmeso is mesopore volume; and Pore diameter BJH is the pore size estimated by BJH method.Initial Substrates before Impregnation
A
S
B (m2 g−1): HY30-S > NH4Y5.2-S > NaY5.1-S > HY5.1-S > NH4Y5.1-S > HY5.2-S
V
Σ (cm3 g−1): HY30-S > NH4Y5.2-S > NaY5.1-S > HY5.2-S > NH4Y5.1-S > HY5.1-S
W
0
t: (cm3 g−1): NaY5.1-S > HY30-S > NH4Y5.1-S > NH4Y5.2-S > HY5.1-S > HY5.2-SImpregnated Materials
A
S
B (m2 g−1): HY30-I > NaY5.1-I > NH4Y5.2-I > HY5.1-I > HY5.2-I > NH4Y5.1-I
V
Σ (cm3 g−1): HY30-I > NH4Y5.2-I > HY5.2-I > NaY5.1-I > HY5.1-I > NH4Y5.1-I
W
0
t (cm3 g−1): NaY5.1-I > HY30-I > NH4Y5.2-I > HY5.1-I > HY5.2-I > NH4Y5.1-IRegarding the Y-zeolites, the deposition of the extract is performed on the outer surface area of these materials, and their textural properties do not change noticeably after the impregnation.


### 3.8. Pore Size Distribution

The pore size distribution (PSD) functions for impregnated samples were obtained by the method of Barrett-Joyner-Halenda, BJH, by using the desorption points of the respective isotherms (Figures6(a) and 6(b)). It can be seen in Figure 6(a) that PSD curves of Y-zeolites before impregnation produce unimodal distributions with peaks occurring at specific values of pore diameters for zeolite HY30-S (74 Å) and bimodal (51 and 106 Å) for zeolite NaY5.1-S. It can be noted the MCM-41-S materials possess bimodal distributions arising at 24 and 34 Å. Meanwhile, the PSD distribution curves of the impregnated materials render unimodal distributions for the MCM-41-I specimen centered at 36 Å. The HY5.2-I zeolite sample shows bimodal distributions centered at 26 and 47 Å, Figure 6(b). The results of these PSD estimations are listed in the last column of Table 2.Figure 6
PSDs of Y-zeolites and MCM-41 materials calculated from the BJH method: (a) nonimpregnated and (b) impregnated.
(a)
(b)


### 3.9. Temperature Programmed Desorption (TPD)

NH3 TPD curves associated with the acidity of protonic zeolites, such as HY5.1, HY5.2, and HY30 herein studied, usually, demonstrate peaks in two temperature ranges (see Figure 7). These intervals lie within 150 to 300 K and 350 to 600 K and are referred to as low temperature (LT) and high temperature (HT) intervals, respectively. The peaks in the LT region are attributed to the desorption of weakly bound NH3. The peaks in the HT range can be attributed to ammonia desorption from Brønsted acid sites and strong Lewis ones. The maximum temperature desorption peak was used to characterize the strength of acidity according to the classification. The NaY5.1, NH4Y5.1, NH4Y5.2, HY5.2, and HY30 samples showed NH3 TPD profiles consistent with those reported in the literature [32]. The NH4Y5.1 zeolite has the highest total acidity in the two defined regions. The position of the high-temperatures desorption peak of NH3 (around 660°C) is the same as the position of dehydroxylation peak. The dehydroxylation and deammoniation occur from the strongest acid sites. The population of these strongest Brønsted sites determined after deconvolution of the TPD spectra is a small fraction of the total number of sites.Figure 7
TPD of NH3 in Y-zeolites and MCM-41 materials: (a) impregnated and (b) nonimpregnated.
(a)
(b)


## 3.1. GS-MS

The chemical composition and the mass percentage of each of the components presented in the active phase of theTournefortia hirsutissima L. ethanol extract were estimated by GC-MS and have been previously reported [23]. Table 2 summarizes the information of the compounds detected by gas chromatography that exist in higher concentrations, together with their retention times and identification factor for each one of them. This table shows that 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono (2-ethylhexyl) ester (21.04%), γ-sitosterol (16.42%), and 3,7,11,15-tetramethyl-2-hexadecen-1-ol (6.34%) are the three main components, followed by hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester (4.77%), phenol, 2,2′-methylene bis (4.53%), (E)-9-octadecenoic acid ethyl ester (4.11%), and hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (4.08%).Table 2
Principal organic molecule composition of the ethanolic extract ofTournefortia hirsutissima L. as measured by GC-MS.
RTmin
Compound
Formula
M g mol−1
RC%
11.878
3,7,11,15-Tetramethyl-2-hexadecen-1-ol (Phytol)
C20H40O
296
6.34
12.732
Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester
C25H42O2
374
4.08
13.334
Phenol, 2,2′-methylene bis
C13H12O2
200
4.53
13.389
Hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester
C18H36O2
284
4.77
14.998
(E)-9-Octadecenoic acid ethyl ester
C20H38O2
310
4.11
19.804
1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono(2-ethylhexyl) ester
C16H22O4
278
21.04
55.946
γ-Sitosterol
C29H50O
414
16.42
RT: retention time, M: molecular mass, and RC: relative concentration (%) ofTournefortia hirsutissima  L. of ethanolic extract.


## 3.2. X-Ray Diffraction

Diffraction patterns of the materials under study at 2θ = 2–6° for the MCM-41 materials and at 2θ = 5–65° for the Y-zeolites are shown in Figure 2. In the diffraction pattern of MCM-41 materials predominant signals were observed at approximately 2θ = 2°; however, these signals are relatively wide thus manifesting an amorphous character. It appears that higher 2θ values than the usual ones indicate some contraction of the structure of this material. The diffraction patterns of Y-zeolites (JCPDS card 33-1270.) exhibit typical signals of such materials. The predominant peaks appear at 2θ: 6.19°, 15.61°, 18.64°, 20.3°, 23.6°, 26.97°, 31.32°, and 33.99°.Figure 2
XRD patterns of (a) MCM-41 and (b) Y-zeolites.


## 3.3. Scanning Electron Microscopy

The analysis performed on the same sample by using Scanning Electron Microscopy shows Y-zeolite aggregates, as well as thin crystals of cubic form and varying sizes of about 1μm (Figures 3(a) and 3(b)).Figure 3
SEM images of Y-zeolites (a-b) and TEM images of MCM-41 materials synthetic samples with different crystal sizes (c-d).
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)


## 3.4. Transmission Electron Microscopy

TEM analysis was performed for the MCM-41-S specimen; the corresponding micrograph unveiled the presence of well-defined and ordered channels (Figures3(c)-3(d)).


## 3.5. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy

Studies of Y-zeolites indicate that MR ratio remains constant after impregnation; with respect to the abundance of Na2O, the following sequence is set up: NaY5.1 > NH4Y5.1 = HY5.1 > NH4Y5.2 = HY5.2 > HY30, which coincide with the sequence of the provider values (Table 1). It means that ion content is not changed during the treatment. Meanwhile, the size of the unit cell is similar for all Y-zeolites, Table 1.


## 3.6. FTIR

The infrared spectra of theTournefortia Ethanolic Extract (TEE) in solution and with impregnated Y-zeolites and MCM-41 nanomaterials have the following features. The most intense absorptions were observed in the range of (a) 400–1700 cm−1 and (b) 2800–3800 cm−1, Figures 4(a) and 4(b). The infrared spectrum has the following features (cm−1): 3300 typical absorption of C-H stretch in alcohols and phenols; 2900 absorption characteristic of C-H stretch of methylene groups; 1720 typical of C=O stretching vibrations of carbonyl group; 1450 cm−1 of CH2; and 1400 typical of COCH3; other absorption peaks include 1200 cm−1 (OH), 1100 cm−1 (cycloalkane), and 950 cm−1 [23]. The framework vibration bands of Y-zeolite show the spectra below 1200 cm−1 in the regions 750 and 700 cm−1, which are attributed to double ring, symmetric stretching, and asymmetric stretching vibrations, respectively [30].Figure 4
FTIR spectra ofTournefortia Ethanolic Extract (TEE) in solution and with impregnated materials, (a) 400–1700 cm−1 and (b) 2800–3800 cm−1.
(a)
(b)


## 3.7. Analysis of the Adsorption Isotherms

The N2 sorption isotherms at 77 K, that is, relative pressure, p/p0 versus adsorbed volume in cm3 STP per gram of material are shown in Figure 5.Figure 5
N2 adsorption isotherms at 77 K on Y-zeolites and MCM-41 materials: (a) nonimpregnated and (b) impregnated with ethanolic solution.
(a)
(b)These isotherms correspond to the samples before and after being impregnated with the alcoholic extract ofTournefortia hirsutissima L. plant. These sorption isotherms are of Type IV in the IUPAC classification for the MCM-41 substrates. In turn, the N2 sorption isotherms of the Y-zeolites are Type Ia in the same classification [31]. The results of the textural studies of the samples, before (S) and after impregnation (I), are reported in Table 3. It can be observed that a greater adsorption capacity of the MCM-41-S material exists, along with the entire p/p0 range if compared to the case of Y-zeolites. However, when this material has been impregnated with the extract solution, the adsorption capacity for the MCM-41-I material is considerably diminished, since the extract is deposited in the interior of the structure voids, thus blocking the pore cavities of this material. There is a decrease in the available volume by approximately 3.5 times. This behavior may be related to the effect of size selectivity depicted by MCM-41 materials. The textural properties of the samples, before (S) and after impregnation (I), conform to the following order according to their adsorption values.Table 3
Textural parameters of FAU-CBV zeolites and MCM-41 materials determined from N2 adsorption before (S) and after being impregnated (I) with Tournefortia ethanolic extract.
Materials
A
S
B m2 g−1
C
B
A
S
L m2 g−1
A
S
t m2 g−1
V
Σ cm3 g−1
W
0
t cm3 g−1
V
m
e
s
o cm3 g−1
Pore diameterBJH, Å
Before
CBV-100-S
670
−37
1018
38
0.395
0.335
0.06
51, 106
CBV-300-S
601
−55
882
31
0.326
0.291
0.035
CBV-400-S
604
−61
886
84
0.275
0.265
0.010
CBV-500-S
678
−61
994
127
0.414
0.284
0.130
72
CBV-600-S
529
−65
772
101
0.378
0.217
0.161
CBV-720-S
725
−80
1060
121
0.496
0.306
0.190
34
MCM-41-S
1009
52
1185
1009
0.777
0
0.777
24, 34
Impregnated
CBV-100-I
692
−53
1016
38
0.369
0.335
0.034
CBV-300-I
462
−56
680
44
0.267
0.214
0.053
CBV-400-I
604
−61
886
84
0.363
0.265
0.098
36, 103
CBV-500-I
678
−61
994
96
0.414
0.297
0.117
CBV-600-I
526
−65
772
101
0.378
0.217
0.161
36, 47, 151
CBV-720-I
725
−80
1060
124
0.496
0.304
0.192
36
MCM-41-I
286
78
415
286
0.309
0
0.309
36
A
s
B is the specific surface area BET; AsL is the specific surface area Langmuir; Ast is the external surface area t-method; CB is the BET constant; VΣ is the volume adsorbed close to saturation (p/p0 = 0.95), calculated as volume of liquid (Gursvitch rule); W0t is micropore volume calculated by t-plots; Vmeso is mesopore volume; and Pore diameter BJH is the pore size estimated by BJH method.Initial Substrates before Impregnation
A
S
B (m2 g−1): HY30-S > NH4Y5.2-S > NaY5.1-S > HY5.1-S > NH4Y5.1-S > HY5.2-S
V
Σ (cm3 g−1): HY30-S > NH4Y5.2-S > NaY5.1-S > HY5.2-S > NH4Y5.1-S > HY5.1-S
W
0
t: (cm3 g−1): NaY5.1-S > HY30-S > NH4Y5.1-S > NH4Y5.2-S > HY5.1-S > HY5.2-SImpregnated Materials
A
S
B (m2 g−1): HY30-I > NaY5.1-I > NH4Y5.2-I > HY5.1-I > HY5.2-I > NH4Y5.1-I
V
Σ (cm3 g−1): HY30-I > NH4Y5.2-I > HY5.2-I > NaY5.1-I > HY5.1-I > NH4Y5.1-I
W
0
t (cm3 g−1): NaY5.1-I > HY30-I > NH4Y5.2-I > HY5.1-I > HY5.2-I > NH4Y5.1-IRegarding the Y-zeolites, the deposition of the extract is performed on the outer surface area of these materials, and their textural properties do not change noticeably after the impregnation.


## 3.8. Pore Size Distribution

The pore size distribution (PSD) functions for impregnated samples were obtained by the method of Barrett-Joyner-Halenda, BJH, by using the desorption points of the respective isotherms (Figures6(a) and 6(b)). It can be seen in Figure 6(a) that PSD curves of Y-zeolites before impregnation produce unimodal distributions with peaks occurring at specific values of pore diameters for zeolite HY30-S (74 Å) and bimodal (51 and 106 Å) for zeolite NaY5.1-S. It can be noted the MCM-41-S materials possess bimodal distributions arising at 24 and 34 Å. Meanwhile, the PSD distribution curves of the impregnated materials render unimodal distributions for the MCM-41-I specimen centered at 36 Å. The HY5.2-I zeolite sample shows bimodal distributions centered at 26 and 47 Å, Figure 6(b). The results of these PSD estimations are listed in the last column of Table 2.Figure 6
PSDs of Y-zeolites and MCM-41 materials calculated from the BJH method: (a) nonimpregnated and (b) impregnated.
(a)
(b)


## 3.9. Temperature Programmed Desorption (TPD)

NH3 TPD curves associated with the acidity of protonic zeolites, such as HY5.1, HY5.2, and HY30 herein studied, usually, demonstrate peaks in two temperature ranges (see Figure 7). These intervals lie within 150 to 300 K and 350 to 600 K and are referred to as low temperature (LT) and high temperature (HT) intervals, respectively. The peaks in the LT region are attributed to the desorption of weakly bound NH3. The peaks in the HT range can be attributed to ammonia desorption from Brønsted acid sites and strong Lewis ones. The maximum temperature desorption peak was used to characterize the strength of acidity according to the classification. The NaY5.1, NH4Y5.1, NH4Y5.2, HY5.2, and HY30 samples showed NH3 TPD profiles consistent with those reported in the literature [32]. The NH4Y5.1 zeolite has the highest total acidity in the two defined regions. The position of the high-temperatures desorption peak of NH3 (around 660°C) is the same as the position of dehydroxylation peak. The dehydroxylation and deammoniation occur from the strongest acid sites. The population of these strongest Brønsted sites determined after deconvolution of the TPD spectra is a small fraction of the total number of sites.Figure 7
TPD of NH3 in Y-zeolites and MCM-41 materials: (a) impregnated and (b) nonimpregnated.
(a)
(b)


## 4. Conclusions

A group of microporous and mesoporous hybrid materials was obtained; these inorganic substrates were impregnated with a bioactive organic phase. The active phase could be introduced and stabilized inside the internal surface of the voids of MCM-41 materials. Meanwhile, the same extract was deposited on the outer surface of the Y-zeolites. The chemical composition of the ethanolTournefortia hirsutissima L. extract indicates that a group of compounds exists constituting the mixture, in which 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono(2-ethylhexyl) ester, and γ-sitosterol prevail as the most abundant compounds. XRD analysis was performed at low and normal angles. N2 adsorption indicates the adsorption capacity is clearly affected after extract impregnation has been performed in the supporting materials; this appears so since the surface area is covered with the bioactive organic phase and results in a decreasing surface area. The pore size distribution indicates a bimodal pore character for the NaY5.1-S zeolites material while in the case of MCM-41-S the behavior is similar to these materials. On the other hand, HY5.1-I has a bimodal character and renders a multimodal character HY5.2-I, so projecting the HY5.2-I acidity and study shows that there are different acid sites (strengths and weaknesses).



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*Source: 2783143-2017-09-18.xml*