Spill Absorbent
Zeolite used as an Industrial Spill Absorbent Zeolite, with its capacity as a 'Molecular Sponge' (molecular sieve), absorbs free hydrocarbons on contact. Hydrocarbons are sorbed to the zeolite (light ends are ABsorbed into the solid channels and pores while heavier ends are Absorbed onto the surface). Zeolites also have an unusual propensity for benzene and other aromatics. Most spill absorbents simply actlike a wick (capillary action) while zeolite absorbs hydrocarbons directly intothe matrix.
Zeolites have a "Honeycomb" like structure that sorb hydrocarbon molecules. ZEOCAN "ZEOSORB" is designed as a high strength absorbent capable of working under the toughest conditions. "ZEOSORB" is a natural zeolite (Note: synthetic zeolites are 'grown' for highly specialized operations). Zeolite has distinctive properties fora preferred industrial absorbent as it provides a strong molecular structure and micro-porosity, making them durable under the heaviest traffic. The pores extend deep into the molecular strata of the zeolite resulting in a high surface area within the material. The depth of these pores allows for continuous effectiveabsorption. The benefits of high internal surface area, physical strength andthe ion exchange properties of the zeolite, account for its exceptional performance as an industrial absorbent. The understanding of the zeolite structure that constitutes an affinity as a hydrocarbon and waste absorbent, has allowed for a wide range of applications. Zeolite is becoming prominentin the market place as a spill control agent due to its hydrocarbon absorptionand lock-up capabilities as well as its waste and odour absorption capabilities.
Natural zeolites are inert, non-toxic, alumino-silicate rock-formingminerals that have four unique physio-chemical properties: 1. high ion-exchange capacity, 2. molecular sieving capacity, 3. high porosity and permeability, and 4. large reactive and adsorptive surface area. Zeolites are a group of naturally occurring minerals characterizedby their unique open framework molecular structure. Zeolites were formed from ancient ash flows which settled into neighbouring seas and saline waters. This gives rise to a unique arrangement of molecular pores,cavities, and channels. Zeolite is also the worlds only naturally-occurring negatively-charged mineral.