Mechanistic insights on SSZ-13 zeolite in catalytic dimethyl ether carbonylation

Dimethyl ether (DME) carbonylation to methyl acetate (MA) is one of the crucial steps in an indirect synthesis route of ethanol from syngas. SSZ-13 zeolite, with a typical topology of CHA, characterized by its 8-membered ring (8-MR) channels, has shown potential in catalyzing DME carbonylation. However, current studies lack a comprehensive understanding of the catalytic mechanism. Meanwhile, the influence of spatial confinement in SSZ-13 on the reaction has also not been considered.