Triethylene diamine-clay complexes as matrices for adsorption and catalytic reactions

Complexes of 1,4-diazabicyclo [2.2.2] octane (triethylene diamine) with smectite and vermiculite were made for the purpose of exposing the internal surfaces of the clays for adsorption of gases and possible catalytic activity. When the diprotonated form of the amine saturated the exchange sites, internal surfaces of the clays were found to be available to nitrogen, ethane, and 2,4-dimethyl pentane. Proton lability in the smectites was studied with NH (sub 3) , D (sub 2) O, and C (sub 6) D (sub 6) experiments. Catalytic function was demonstrated in the conversion of acetonitrile to acetamide in the smectite.