Synthesis of Geopolymer-Based Phase-Pure and Strong Analcime Zeolite via Simple Hydrothermal Method
摘要
It is well-known that the synthesis of analcime zeolite via hydrothermal process requires long treatment reaching up to several days, also, the resulting zeolite is commonly phase impure and has weak mechanical strength. In the current work, analcime zeolite was synthesized using a simple hydrothermal method utilizing geopolymer as a template and 1 M aqueous solution of Sodium hydroxide as a media for the hydrothermal process. Investigations were conducted into the effects of the hydrothermal treatment’s duration and temperature. Adsorption experiments were performed to confirm the phase purity and high crystallinity of the analcime. The produced analcime zeolite was evaluated using characterization methods as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. It has been discovered that treating a solution of NaOH at 240 °C for six hours can provide phase-pure and self-supporting analcime zeolite, with a surface having different binding sites. The findings not only establish the viability of geopolymer as a starting material for analcime zeolite synthesis but also contribute valuable insights into the key factors influencing the process. This research advances the understanding of zeolite synthesis pathways and expands the potential applications of geopolymers in the realm of zeolite materials.