Uses of natural zeolite
Industrial applications of natural zeolite
Purification and separation of gases
Synthetic zeolites have been used for many years in the petroleum industry, but natural zeolites are being increasingly used as a cost effective alternative in certain applications where there is no performance disadvantage.
Natural zeolites are particularly effective in the following applications: Removal of water and carbon dioxide from gaseous hydrocarbons, removal of hydrochloric acid and hydrogen sulphide from gas streams, catalysis, and natural gas separation.
Handling and disposal of nuclear waste
Natural zeolite has a high ion exchange capacity and a particular affinity for heavy metal cations. It can absorb elements such as strontium 90, cesium 137 and other radioactive isotopes from solution, and hold them in its 3 dimensional crystal framework. Zeolites react readily with cement and glass systems thus allowing the radioactive waste to be entrapped and contained safely. Zeolites are physically robust and resistant to nuclear degradation, and they are less expensive than organic ion exchange resins.
Lightweight construction materials
Natural zeolite can be used to prepare lightweight concrete for construction. It’s porous silicate structure makes it much lighter than sand which gives increased volume per tonne but with similar hardness and strength. Zeolite is free from clay which reduces the overall strength of the concrete, and it’s porous structure holds moisture which facilitates a more rapid curing of the concrete.
Pollution Control
The unique properties of natural zeolites give rise to a range of potential uses in preventing or removing contamination of the environment. It can be used to filter gaseous and aqueous effluent streams from industrial installations, and it is very effective in the clean up of contaminated land. It’s absorbent properties make it ideal for cleaning up spillages of hazardous materials.
ZeoCat
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