Synthesis of 4A zeolites from kaolin for obtaining 5A zeolites through ionic exchange for adsorption of arsenic

The synthesis of adsorbing zeolite materials requires fine control of the processing variables. There are distinct process variable settings for obtaining specific desired types of zeolites. The intent of this study was to obtain 4A zeolites from kaolin in order to obtain 5A zeolites through ionic exchange with the previously synthesized zeolite. This zeolite 5A was used as an adsorbent for arsenic ions. The results obtained were satisfactory.

► We synthesize 4A zeolite from kaolin by hydrothermal reaction with sodium hydroxide.
► The 4A zeolite synthesized underwent ion exchange with calcium ions, with different parameters, to obtain 5A zeolites.
► The best 4A zeolite obtained was used as adsorbent material for arsenic ions.
► The results showed that the 5A zeolite material obtained is a good adsorber of heavy ions.