As microporous crystalline materials, zeolites, and in particular faujasitic zeolites find applications in catalysis, separation, adsorption and ion exchange. Mass transfer limitations, inaccessibility of bulky molecules and coke formation are some of the drawbacks with conventionally prepared zeolites.

The combination of both micro and mesopores leads to a hierarchical structure, where mesopores can enhance the transfer and chemistry of bulky molecules, followed by reactions within the micropores of the zeolite framework. Ion-exchange also happens at different length scales.