4A Zeolite is a widely used synthetic zeolite that plays an important role in the industrial and environmental protection fields due to its unique structure and excellent adsorption properties. Its name comes from the fact that each node in its framework has four aluminum-oxygen tetrahedrons, forming a uniform pore structure, which gives 4A zeolite unique physical and chemical properties.
Structure and Properties
The chemical formula of 4A zeolite is usually \[Na_2[(AlO_2)_12(SiO_2)_12]·24H_2O\], and its crystal structure belongs to the cubic crystal system. The diameter of its pores is about 4 Å (0.4 nanometers), which enables it to screen and adsorb molecules of a specific size. The main characteristics of 4A zeolite include:
1. Molecular sieve characteristics: 4A zeolite can selectively adsorb molecules, and its pore size is moderate, which can effectively separate and purify molecules of different sizes.
2. High adsorption capacity: It has a high specific surface area and pore volume, and can efficiently adsorb moisture, gas and organic matter.
3. Ion exchange capacity: Its structure contains exchangeable sodium ions, which allows it to be used as a catalyst or adsorbent in chemical reactions for ion exchange.
Application fields
Due to its excellent properties, 4A zeolite plays an important role in many fields:
1. Detergents: In household and industrial detergents, 4A zeolite is often used as a water softener. It can remove calcium and magnesium ions from water, thereby improving the effectiveness of detergents.
2. Gas separation: In the process of industrial gas separation, 4A zeolite is used to separate nitrogen and oxygen in the air. Its sieve holes can effectively screen out specific gas molecules and optimize the separation process.
3. Catalyst: In the petrochemical industry, 4A zeolite is used as a catalyst for catalytic cracking, isomerization and other reactions to improve the quality and yield of petroleum products.
4. Environmental protection: In the field of environmental protection, 4A zeolite is used to treat harmful substances in wastewater and exhaust gas. It can absorb heavy metal ions, organic pollutants, etc., and effectively purify the environment.
