Zeolite powder industrial use

Zeolite powder industrial use

Construction

  • Supplementary cementitious material: Natural zeolite powder is used as a partial replacement for cement in concrete mixtures. It improves the strength and durability of the concrete over time due to its pozzolanic properties.
  • Water absorbent: The porous structure of zeolite allows it to absorb and release water. In concrete, this can help provide internal curing and minimize shrinkage and cracking, particularly in high-performance mixtures.
  • Heavy metal absorbent: In cement, zeolite powder can bind heavy metal ions, preventing them from leaching out of the solidified material and into the environment.

Agriculture and animal husbandry

  • Soil amendment: Zeolite powder increases the soil's ability to retain and slowly release water and nutrients like nitrogen and potassium. This improves fertility, reduces nutrient runoff, and can be especially beneficial in arid regions.
  • Heavy metal trap: When added to soil, zeolite helps trap heavy metals and other cationic pollutants, reducing their uptake by plants.
  • Animal feed additive: Zeolite is used as an anticaking agent and a binder for mycotoxins and ammonia in animal feed. This improves animal health, reduces the toxic effects of aflatoxins, and increases nutrient utilization.
  • Odor control and hygiene: In animal housing, zeolite is added to bedding to absorb moisture and ammonia gas from urine and droppings, which improves air quality and overall hygiene.

Household and industrial products

  • Detergents and cleaners: Zeolite 4A is a phosphate-free and environmentally friendly water softener used in detergents. It enhances cleaning power by removing calcium and magnesium ions from hard water.
  • Absorbent and deodorizer: Its ability to trap odors and absorb a wide range of gases makes it useful in deodorants and for treating spills of oil and other waste.
  • Water and air purification: Zeolite is used as a filter media to remove heavy metals, ammonia, and other dissolved solids from water. It can also be used to remove air pollutants.

Medical and cosmetic research

  • notes a lack of published human data to support these claims and that the FDA has issued warnings for misleading claims.Detoxification: Zeolite is promoted as a detoxifying agent, with some research indicating it can bind toxins, heavy metals, and other impurities in the digestive tract. However, theMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
  • Antioxidant effects: Some studies suggest that zeolite may have antioxidant activity, though more research is needed.
  • Skin health: When applied topically, zeolite powder can serve as an adsorbent and purifier. It is used in face masks and exfoliants for its ability to absorb pollutants and cleanse the skin.
  • Wound healing: Zeolite powder has shown potential benefits in treating skin ulcers and accelerating the healing of wounds.