This paper summarizes the investigation results on the main parameters affecting the synthesis of type X and A zeolites using coal silicious fly ash (FA) as raw material. The synthesis was performed by dissolution of alkali-fused alumino-silicates, followed by hydrothermal treatment. The experimental data confirm that fly ash SiO2/Al2O3 ratio, NaOH/FA ratio, acid treatment of pre-fused fly ash, salinity of solution have a significant effect on type and properties of newly formed zeolites. In summary, the results show that A and X-type zeolite form with FA SiO2/Al2O3 ratio < 1.12 and > 1.86, respectively. Moreover, FA characterized by SiO2/Al2O3 mole ratio of 3.15 is suitable for X-type zeolite synthesis while A-type zeolite does not form without NaAlO2 addition. The crystallization occurs faster at higher temperatures although above 90°C X-type zeolite evolves into more stable phases whereas increasing the crystallization time from 1 to 72 hours, the yield of the synthetic products enhances from 60 to 75%. The use of seawater is responsible for the synthesis of X-type showing both lower purity and specific surface area. However, the synthetic products are characterized by high exchange capacity (> 320 meq/100 g), thus suggesting their successful application as adsorbents and catalysts in different types of wastewater and industrial waste treatments.
The increased use value of bamboo leaves as silica source for t-type zeolite synthesis