Abstract: The Fe(phen)3 complex was successfully encapsulated inside the cavities of zeolite Y with different ion-exchanged alkali metal cations (Li+, Na+, K+, and Cs+) by the flexible ligand method. Fe(phen)3 loading correlates to the different alkali metal cations, and the roles of the alkali metal cations on the catalytic performance of Fe(phen)3/M-Y are the integrated results of electric effects, space steric constraints, and diffusion effects.

Key words: alkali metal cation, iron, phenanthroline, Y zeolite, catalytic oxidation