Zeolite, also known as “boiling stone,” is a Greek word referring to a mineral with exceptional surface adsorption and ion exchange capabilities. These characteristics make it widely used in agriculture, water and wastewater treatment, and the production of animal and poultry feed. This group of porous minerals zeolite is naturally found in colors such as yellow, white, reddish-brown, and soئهmetimes colorless. The Mofid Trading Group will elaborate on the physical and chemical properties of zeolite, its applications in water and wastewater treatment, and how to purchase it.
wikipedia:
Zeolite is a family of several microporous, crystalline aluminosilicate materials commonly used as commercial adsorbents and catalysts.[1] They mainly consist of silicon, aluminium, oxygen, and have the general formula Mn+1/n(AlO 2)−(SiO2)x･yH2O where Mn+1/n is either a metal ion or H+.
What is Zeolite Stone?
Zeolite is a highly absorbent mineral first identified in 1756 by Axel Fredrik Cronstedt, a Russian mineralogist. Known as the “boiling stone,” zeolite releases water as vapor when exposed to mineralogical blowpipes. Belonging to the aluminosilicate family, zeolites can be naturally or synthetically produced.
Naturally, zeolite is formed in highly alkaline soils and sediments in the depths of seas and saltwater lakes. Some fibrous zeolite samples can be extracted in Iran. Synthetic zeolite is produced in laboratories using three water molecules and one aluminum oxide molecule, mixed with sodium hydroxide solution at high temperatures. This mixture is combined with sodium silicate and then transferred to special blowers at 97°C to form zeolite crystals.
Types of Zeolite
Zeolites used in various industries can be categorized based on their production method:
- Natural Zeolites
- Synthetic Zeolites
- Alteration of Kaolin Zeolites
They can also be classified by structure and shape into fibrous and columnar types. Additionally, based on the aluminum-to-silicon ratio, zeolites can be grouped by their acidity. A higher ratio indicates greater acidity; for instance, a ratio of 0.8 signifies an acidic zeolite.
Physical and Chemical Properties of Zeolite
Zeolites generally have a tetrahedral structure with a highly charged surface, enabling rapid ion exchange. Their catalytic, surface adsorption, and ion exchange properties make them highly versatile. For example, zeolites act as catalysts in many chemical reactions and rapidly adsorb volatile organic compounds from the air due to their porous surface.
One of the most notable properties of zeolite is its high ion-exchange capacity. The hydrated cations on its porous surface facilitate the replacement of its aluminum ions with heavy metals.
Applications of Zeolite in Water Treatment
Given its unique physical and chemical properties, zeolite is widely used in water treatment industries. Heavy metal ions like magnesium, calcium, and aluminum in water contribute to hardness, a common challenge in water purification. Zeolite’s high ion-exchange capacity makes it ideal for sand filters, where it captures these ions, reducing water hardness.
Applications of Zeolite in Wastewater Treatment
In wastewater treatment systems for urban and industrial settings, removing pollutants such as nitrogen and phosphorus before releasing the water into nature is essential. Zeolite effectively removes these pollutants via ion exchange. Its efficacy can be enhanced with acid washing.
In industrial wastewater treatment systems, zeolite can remove toxic substances, arsenic, and radioactive particles. With its high adsorption capacity, zeolite captures gases like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide and adsorbs clinoptilolite and chabazite, eliminating them from effluents.
Zeolite Pricing
Zeolites come in various types, with some being acidic and others alkaline. Production methods also differ; for instance, sedimentary zeolites are more common in Iran, while volcanic ones are prevalent in other countries. Consequently, prices vary based on whether the zeolite is domestic or imported and its chemical characteristics. To inquire about zeolite prices, you can contact the sales experts at Mofid Trading Group.
Purchasing Zeolite
The primary application of zeolite stone is in wastewater treatment. Additionally, it is used in agriculture, swimming pool water treatment, and as a dietary supplement for livestock and poultry. To purchase zeolite with specific properties, contact Mofid Trading Group. It’s important to note that the type of zeolite required may differ across industries, affecting its efficiency. For this reason, Mofid Trading Group offers free consultations with experts before purchase.