The zeolite family is a group of crystalline aluminosilicate minerals with a 3D honeycomb microstructure. Natural zeolites are one of the most common groups of aluminosilicates in volcanic sedimentary rocks, formed as a result of the deposition and alteration of volcanic tuffs in saline, alkaline lake deposits and open hydrological systems.
Zeolites are noted for their ion-exchange capacity and reversible dehydration. Their honeycomb structure encloses interconnected cavities and channels filled with hydrated alkali and alkaline earth cations and water molecules. The mineral's high surface area, high ion-exchange capacity, hydration / rehydration and adsorption capacity makes it an excellent molecular sieve, valued in a wide range of end applications ranging from cat litter to water purification.
Zeolites are natural solutions which confer a range of benefits that foster a cleaner, healthier environment.
In crop production, zeolite is used in a large range of plant nutrition and soil improvement products where it enables the slow release of nutrients and better water retention.
In industrial and environmental applications, zeolite’s adsorption properties make it a useful mineral for air purification and water treatment applications, including ammonia and heavy metal removal in wastewater systems, and swimming pool and pond filtration.
Due to their affinity with the ions of certain heavy metals and radioactive elements, zeolites are environmentally friendly solutions for purifying industrial waste - particularly in site remediation and decontamination situations. Their superior porosity makes them excellent industrial absorbents for cleaning up oil and chemical spills.
They also make suitable filtration aids for industrial liquids, pharmaceuticals and wine.