Monday 26 March 2012

Zeolites

Zeolites are microporous crystalline solids. Many occur naturally as minerals, and are extensively mined in many parts of the world. Others are synthetic, and are made commercially for specific uses.


     










Because of their unique porous properties they are often also referred to as molecular sieves.  Zeolites are used in a variety of applications with a global market of several milliion tonnes per annum:
- in petrochemical cracking: helps convert fuel oil into gasoline and LPG , 
- water softening and purification: used to separate harmful organics from water
- in the separation and removal of gases and solvents. 
- Other applications are in agriculture, animal husbandry and construction. 

Commercial waste water containing heavy metals, and nuclear effluents containing radioactive isotopes can also be cleaned up using such zeolites. Thus many commercial washing powders contain substantial amounts of zeolite.
- Zeolites can remove atmospheric pollutants, such as engine exhaust gases and ozone-depleting CFCs. 


Zeolites contribute to a cleaner, safer environment in a great number of ways. In fact nearly every application of zeolites has been driven by environmental concerns, or plays a significant role in reducing toxic waste and energy consumption. 


Source: 
1. http://www.bza.org/zeolites.html
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cracking_(chemistry)

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