Synthesis of mordenite using kaolin as Si and Al source

The main purpose of this work was to study mordenite synthesis using kaolin as a Si and Al source. The influence of crystallization time and seed addition were studied. The obtained zeolites were characterized by: XRD, SEM, nitrogen adsorption and chemical analysis. Kaolin showed to be a promising source of Si and Al for mordenite synthesis. Seed addition led to more highly crystalline phases. Kaolin yielded mordenite whereas ZSM-5 was obtained from calcined kaolin. Longer synthesis times and seed addition favored mordenite formation.