Adsorption and desorption studies of various solvents on selected Zambia Kapiri Mposhi zeolite samples

MARINA G. XAVIER and SAMUEL F. BANDA

Department of Chemistry, University of Zambia, Box 32379, Lusaka (Zambia).

Received on June 20, 2009 and accepted on August 04, 2009

ABSTRACT

Natural zeolite’s three dimensional honeycomb structures create a frame work through which liquid and gases can be exchanged. Zeolites form in nature as a result of the chemical reaction between volcanic glass and saline water. Its unique structure and ability to exchange or adsorb substances enables it to be used in a wide variety of residential and commercial application. Two different zeolite samples have been selected and various adsorption and desorption studies were made and interpreted. It was found that zeolites obtained locally from Kapiri Mposhi area of Zambia can find application driven by environmental concern, or play a significant role in reducing toxic waste and energy consumption. We demonstrate that these zeolite samples, though not fully characterized, have found local use in laboratory work, in water purification, ion exchange reactions bringing about huge savings from costly imported zeolites.

Keywords : Natural zeolites, pore size, adsorption, desorption, molecular sieves, critical diameter