Other Names:
Aluminosilicate, Sodium Aluminosilicate, Molecular Sieve, Permutit, Zeolith, Zeosorb, Radiolite, Clinoptilolite, Zeolite 4A, Zeolite 13X
Specification Summary
- Purity: Typically >70% (Clinoptilolite content for natural zeolites); synthetic grades can exceed 99%
- Form: Powder, granules, crystals, beads
- CAS No.: 1318-02-1 (general zeolite), 12173-10-3 (clinoptilolite)
- Molecular Formula: Al₂O₅Si (typical), varies by type
- Molecular Weight: Approx. 162.05 g/mol (varies with composition)
Product Description
Zeolites are microporous, crystalline aluminosilicate minerals appearing as white to beige powders or granules. They are insoluble in water and most solvents, non-corrosive, and chemically stable under a wide range of conditions. Zeolites exhibit a mildly alkaline pH in aqueous suspensions (typically 8–11), are highly adsorptive, and possess strong ion-exchange and molecular sieve capabilities. Their open, cage-like framework provides high surface area and exceptional stability, making them ideal for adsorption, catalysis, and filtration applications.
Zeolites Specifications Table
| Property | Value/Description |
| Purity (Clinoptilolite) | >70% (natural); up to 99% (synthetic) |
| Appearance | White to beige powder/granules/crystals |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 1.9–2.3 g/cm³ |
| Bulk Density | 700–750 kg/m³ |
| Melting Point | >1000°C (typically >1600°C) |
| Water Solubility | Insoluble |
| pH (in water) | 8–11 |
| Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) | 160–200 meq/100g |
| Pore Diameter | 0.3–0.8 nm (varies by type) |
| Specific Surface Area | ~40 m²/g (varies by grade) |
| Hardness | 4–5 (Mohs scale) |
| Form | Powder, granules, beads, crystals |
| Stability | Chemically and thermally stable |
Downloadable TDS:
A comprehensive Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is available for download upon request, detailing full physical, chemical, and safety data.
Application Sectors and Industries of Zeolites
Water & Wastewater Treatment
Zeolites are extensively used as filtration media for removing heavy metals, ammonium, and other contaminants from municipal and industrial water streams. Their high ion-exchange capacity and selectivity make them effective in both potable water purification and wastewater remediation, ensuring compliance with stringent environmental standards.
Detergent Industry
Synthetic zeolites, particularly Zeolite A, have replaced phosphates as builders in laundry detergents. They soften water by exchanging calcium and magnesium ions, enhancing cleaning efficiency while reducing environmental impact and meeting global regulations on phosphate use.
Petroleum Refining & Petrochemicals
Zeolites serve as essential catalysts in fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) and hydrocracking processes, converting heavy crude oil fractions into lighter, high-value fuels and chemicals. Their uniform pore structure and acidity enable selective molecular transformations, improving refinery yields and product quality.
Agriculture & Horticulture
Natural zeolites are used as soil amendments to improve water retention, nutrient availability, and reduce leaching of fertilizers. They are also employed as carriers for fertilizers and pesticides, promoting sustainable agriculture and enhancing crop yields.
Animal Feed Additives
In animal nutrition, zeolites act as mycotoxin binders, improve feed efficiency, and reduce ammonia emissions in livestock operations. Their ability to adsorb toxins and control moisture benefits animal health and farm hygiene.
Construction Materials
Zeolites are incorporated into lightweight concrete, pozzolanic cements, and as additives in building materials to enhance strength, durability, and thermal insulation properties. Their use supports sustainable construction practices and improved building performance.
Gas Separation & Purification
Molecular sieve zeolites are widely used for gas drying, natural gas purification, and separation of industrial gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen. Their precise pore sizes enable selective adsorption of specific molecules, ensuring high-purity gas streams.
Environmental Remediation
Zeolites are applied in soil and groundwater remediation to immobilize heavy metals, radionuclides, and organic contaminants. Their high cation-exchange and adsorption capacities make them vital for restoring polluted environments and meeting regulatory cleanup standards.
Chemical Manufacturing
Zeolites function as catalysts and adsorbents in various chemical synthesis processes, including the production of polymers, fine chemicals, and specialty products. Their stability and tunable properties support process efficiency and product consistency.
Packaging and Food Preservation
In packaging films, zeolites are added as moisture and gas adsorbents to extend shelf life and maintain product quality in food, pharmaceutical, and sensitive goods packaging. Their inclusion helps control humidity and prevent spoilage.
Air Purification
Zeolites are utilized in air filtration systems to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), odors, and toxic gases from indoor and industrial environments, contributing to improved air quality and occupational safety.
Biomedical Applications
Emerging uses of zeolites include drug delivery systems, wound dressings, and as carriers for antimicrobial agents, leveraging their biocompatibility and controlled release properties in healthcare products.
Packaging Types
- 25 kg Bags: Standard multi-layered bags for manual handling and moderate-scale use.
- Big Bags (500–1000 kg): Flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) for efficient transport and storage of bulk quantities.
- Drums/Barrels: Airtight steel or plastic drums, ideal for moisture-sensitive grades and high-purity requirements.
- Specialty Sacks: Multi-layered composite sacks with inner moisture barriers (including metalized layers) to prevent humidity ingress during storage and transport.
- Custom Packaging: Tailored solutions, including small sachets for consumer use or large bulk containers for industrial applications, available on request.
For detailed technical specifications, safety data, and application guidance, please contact our technical support team or download the comprehensive Technical Data Sheet (TDS).
