Zeolite molecular sieves: preparation and scale-up

This paper is aimed at new researchers, and more experienced scientists, who are intending to embark on programmes of work involving zeolite synthesis. The paper describes, from an industrial perspective, aspects of preparation and scale-up. Following some initial comments on environment, health and safety the paper provides an overview of some basic principles covering thermodynamics and kinetics. Thereafter, the paper “de-constructs” a typical zeolite synthesis mixture describing the role of individual components and reaction conditions. Finally zeolite scale-up is examined touching on economic considerations, raw material sources and the basic principles of mixing/agitation.