Zeolite Data Sheet: Properties and Safety Information

Zeolite is an inorganic porous crystalline material with micropores, widely used in applications such as cation exchange, adsorption, and catalysis. In this article, we take a detailed look at the physical properties, chemical composition, and safety information of zeolite.

Physical Properties of Zeolite

Zeolite possesses a range of physical properties that make it valuable across many industrial sectors.

• Density: The density of zeolite is measured between 2,200 and 2,440 kg/m³. This indicates that zeolite is a relatively lightweight material.
• Melting Point: Zeolite has a high melting point above 1,000°C and maintains its stability even at temperatures above 400°C.
• Surface Area: The surface area of zeolite is 40 m²/g, providing high adsorption capacity.
• Pore Volume: The pore size is 4-7.0 Å, allowing the adsorption of molecules of various sizes.

Chemical Composition of Zeolite

Zeolite has a structure in which SiO4 and AlO4 tetrahedra are linked, forming channels and supercages. In the case of zeolite A, the pore opening is 3-5 Å while the interior is 11 Å. A representative example of natural zeolite is clinoptilolite, with the chemical formula Na₆[Al₆Si₃₀O₇₂]·24H₂O.

• Si/Al Ratio: The properties of zeolite vary according to the Si/Al ratio. Zeolite X has a Si/Al ratio of 1-1.5, while zeolite Y ranges from 1.6 to 3.
• Cation Exchange Capacity: The cation exchange capacity of zeolite is 2.0 meq/g, allowing it to effectively exchange a variety of ions.

Safety Information for Zeolite

Zeolite is a non-flammable material and can be used safely. However, caution is required because it may release toxic gases if decomposed at high temperatures.

• LD50: The oral toxicity of zeolite is LD50 ≥2,000 mg/kg, classifying it as a low-toxicity material.
• Exposure Limits: On a TWA basis, respirable particles are limited to <3 mg/m³ and inhalable particles to <10 mg/m³.
• Chronic Exposure: Long-term exposure to high concentrations carries a risk of kidney and bladder damage, with a NOAEL of 75 mg/kg.

FAQ

1. In which fields is zeolite used? Zeolite is used in a variety of fields, including environmental pollutant removal, water treatment, and petrochemicals.

2. What is the main chemical composition of zeolite? Zeolite has the chemical formula Na₆[Al₆Si₃₀O₇₂]·24H₂O and contains various metal cations.

3. What is the melting point of zeolite? Zeolite has a high melting point above 1,000°C and maintains its stability even at high temperatures.

4. What precautions should be taken for the safe use of zeolite? Although zeolite is a non-flammable material, caution is required because it may release toxic gases at high temperatures.

5. What is the pore volume of zeolite? The pore size of zeolite is 4-7.0 Å, giving it the ability to adsorb a variety of molecules.

Additional Information

If you would like more information about zeolite, please refer to the article on The Role of Zeolite in Petrochemicals. There you can find more in-depth content on the properties and applications of various zeolites.