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Existing and Potential Applications of Zeolites in Water Treatment
Existing and Potential Applications of Zeolites in Water Treatment
Raul F. Lobo
Center for Catalytic Science and Technology
Dept. of Chemical Engineering
University of Delaware
Zeolite Chabazite
Pore Systems
• Dimensionality and size of zeolite pores
define many of its properties
– Size of smallest window determine size of
molecules that can enter/leave the zeolite
– Dimensionality affect many properties such as
diffusion, pore blocking, etc.
– Pore intersections act like cages
– Classification:
• Small 8-ring 4Å Zeolite A
• Medium 10-ring 5.6 Å ZSM-5
• Large 12-ring 7.8 Å USY
• Extra-large pore +12-ring >8Å UTD-1
Framework Composition
• Structure is what make zeolites unique,
chemical composition can greatly affect their
properties
– Silica zeolites (SiO2–CHA). Very hydrophobic,
covalent bonding dominates, no other interactions
besides dispersion forces
– High-silica Zeolites (Si/Al>10). Less hydrophobic,
H-bond or eletrostatic forces important
– Low-silica zeolites (Na+[SiAlO4]–CHA) Very
hydrophilic, bonding more ionic, H-bond-
electrostatic interactions dominate
Ion Exchange