The synthesis of hierarchical zeolites has rapidly become a thriving research topic within the field of zeolite catalysis. Many strategies to substantially enhance the effectiveness of zeolite catalysts have been explored in recent times. Of importance is to combine the beneficial textural and catalytic properties of microporous zeolites with the improved transport properties associated with the presence of sufficient mesoporosity. Such approaches hold the promise of substantially improved catalytic performance as is clear from recent literature. Considerable challenges still exist in tailor-made synthesis of desired zeolite nanostructures and their catalytic functionalization.

With this in mind the theme of the annual meeting of the Dutch Zeolite Association to be held at the Eindhoven University of Technology in Eindhoven on November 11 2010, will be Hierarchical Zeolites. A plenary lecture will be given by prof. dr. Ryong Ryoo of the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology.

The Dutch Zeolite Association (DZA) has been founded in 1994 as a Dutch-Belgian co-operation in order to enhance interest in and knowledge of zeolites and related materials. The DZA co-operates with the FEZA and the IZA to achieve those goals. DZA organises symposia and summerschools on all kind of subjects related to synthesis, characterisation and applications of zeolites and related materials. An annual session devoted to catalysis by microporous and mesoporous materials is organised as part of the Netherlands Catalysis and Chemistry Conference.

For the upcoming annual meeting the organizing committee strives to schedule about 6 lectures and 10-15 posters. The poster presentations will be an important part of this conference.

On behalf of the organizing committee I hope to welcome you in Eindhoven on November 11.

Prof. Dr. Emiel Hensen

Eindhoven University of Technology

Inorganic Materials Chemistry