Clinoptilolite Zeolite

Novembre 22, 2009 | Eco News, Environment, Green Energy

The zeolites are a popular assemblage of minerals, containing an indispensable source of minerals for industrial and productive purposes. They possess complexity, scarcity and splendour. Zeolites form in the cavities of volcanic rocks, as a result of low level metamorphism. Varying types and qualities of the mineral is a result of the combination of heat and pressure, with some forming from minimal amounts of heat and pressure, while others are formed in regions of high metamorphic activity. This group has even been seen to form in space… experimentally grown aboard a space shuttle. The Zeolites have been receiving increasing attention for their aesthetics and productive functions, being the subject of widespread research into their formation and unique properties.

In a global perspective, there are many prominent occurrences of Clinoptilolite, but none more so than the central North Island of New Zealand. Approximately 250,000 years ago, in the Rotorua-Taupo region, a unique event involving intense volcanic activity generated giant tephra deposits, which were then subsequently eroded into lakes through an alluvial process, forming deep beds of sediment. Subsequent thermal activity based on the surface, pressured water well above boiling temperature, up through these beds transforming the clays into soft rocks. These newly formed rocks possessing ordered internal structural sequences, were termed zeolites. These forces created the Ngakuru mines, which produce Clinoptilolite zeolites that are renowned for their crystal habit, density, water absorption and heat tolerance. As a result, there is much demand for Clinoptilolite from this volcanic region, as well as the companies producing and utilising the zeolites for innovative applications.

Although Clinoptilolite is not the most recognised of the Zeolite group, it is one of the most researched and commercially utilised, being employed in many applications. It currently has been used as a chemical sieve, a gas absorber, a feed and food additive, an odour control agent and as a water filter for residential drinking water. Clinoptilolite is ideal for these types of functions due to its resisting abilities to intense heat, a neutral chemical structure and its absorbing qualities as a result of its sizeable pore space. Clinoptilolite has been employed for some time as an additive to animal feeds. Through the aforementioned properties it possess, it is able to absorb any toxin found formed by microscopic parasites, while enhancing food absorption. Additionally, this mineral can easily attract ammonia and other toxic gases from air and water and thus can be used in filters, both for health reasons and for odour removal. Moreover, Zeolites have been advocated by the New Zealand Sports Institute as suitable for additive to sand based sports turf areas, in particular golf and bowling greens.

Blue Pacific Minerals Ltd is a mineral processing / manufacturing company based in Matamata, Waikato, New Zealand. We process a number of naturally occurring minerals and sell these domestically and internationally. Our facilities have the capability to provide a range of standard and specialized grades and specifications over a selection of mineral & ore types such as Clinoptilolite Zeolite and Perlite. We can provide customised specifications to suit your specific markets and applications, such as biological and chemical carriers. Blue Pacific Minerals Ltd: Clinoptilolite Zeolite

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