In recent decades, there has been considerable interest in creating hierarchical zeolites because of their enhanced catalytic qualities and ability to facilitate mass transfer. This study investigates the synthesis of ZSM-5 zeolites using a new natural surfactant extracted from the plant Sapindus mukorossi (Sapindaceae family), which contains Saponins known for their surface-active properties and are responsible for the surfactant's efficiency and considered a mesoporogen to create inter- or intracrystalline mesopores in the zeolite. The last one is synthesized via the hydrothermal method by modifying the amounts of natural surfactant and contrasted with a conventional ZSM-5 as a reference. The synthesized materials are characterized using various analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), nitrogen adsorption isotherms, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the high crystallinity of all synthesized samples.
Moreover, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface area measurements revealed a significant increase in surface area to 468m2/g compared to the conventional ZSM-5. Barrett-Joyner-Halenda pore size distribution showed a size above 5nm, indicating the existence of hierarchical mesoporosity. These findings were validated by enhanced adsorption properties, displaying a 90% removal rate of phenol. Green synthesis has seen the introduction of a new bio template, providing a simple use without the need for previous preparation and availability, being cost-effective, and most importantly, not harmful to the environment.