Zeolite Answer

Zeolite is a mineral with porous structure, which allows some molecules to pass through and causes others to be either excluded, or broken down. The term has been derived from Greek words “zein” and “boil,” which mean “to boil” and “a stone.” This term was originally coined by Axel Fredrick Cronstedt, a Swedish mineralogis in the 18th century. He observed that upon heating a natural mineral rapidly, the stones began to dance about as the water evaporated.

More than 150 types of zeolite have been synthesized. There are 48 known naturally occurring zeolites. They are basically a hydrated alumino-silicate minerals with an “open” structure which can accommodate a wide variety of positive ions, like Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+ and others.

Uses of Zeolites

Commercial and Domestic – It is widely been used as ion-exchange beds in both domestic and commercial water purification, softening, and other applications. In chemistry, it separates molecules, only of certain sizes and shapes can pass through, as traps for molecules so that they can be analyzed, or as catalysts by confining molecules in small spaces that causes changes in their structure and reactivity.

Zeolites even carries the potentiality of providing precise and specific separation of gases including the removal of H2O, CO2 and SO2 from the lower grade natural gas streams. Some other separations includes HCHO, Noble gases, N2, Freon and Formaldehyde. However, the true potential for improving the handling of such gases in this manner remains unknown.

Agriculture – Clinoptilolite, a naturally occurring zeolite, is used as a soil treatment in agriculture. It provides a source of slowly released potassium. If the zeolite is previously loaded with ammonium, it can serve a similar function in the slow release of nitrogen. Cuban studies even suggests that some crops may be grown in 100% zeolite or zeolite mixtures, where the zeolite is previously loaded or has been coated with fertilizer and micronutrients.

Medical – Zeolite-based oxygen generation systems are used in producing medical grade oxygen. It is used as a molecular sieve for extracting oxygen from air, in a process which involves adsorption of atmospheric nitrogen. The usage of zeolite is also being explored for a quick clotting of severe bleeding.

Heating and Refrigeration – Zeolites can also be used as solar thermal collectors and for adsorption refrigeration. Their high heat of adsorption and ability to hydrate and dehydrate is exploited while maintaining the structural stability. This hygroscopic property along with an inherent exothermic reaction, while transitioning from dehydrated to a hydrated form, make the natural zeolites effective in the storage of solar and the waste heat energy.

Detergents – Synthetic zeolite is widely used as the global laundry detergent.

Gemstones – Thomsonites is collected as gemstones from a series of lava flows along the Lake Superior (Minnesota) and in a lesser degree in Michigan (USA).