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Optimization of the synthesis process of zeolites with high cation exchange capacity using copper mine tailings as raw material
Author(s) -
EspejelAyala Fabricio,
RamírezZamora Rosa María
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
environmental progress and sustainable energy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.495
H-Index - 66
eISSN - 1944-7450
pISSN - 1944-7442
DOI - 10.1002/ep.12766
Subject(s) - tailings , zeolite , raw material , copper , environmental remediation , hydrothermal circulation , residue (chemistry) , environmental science , waste management , contamination , chemistry , environmental chemistry , pulp and paper industry , chemical engineering , materials science , metallurgy , catalysis , engineering , organic chemistry , ecology , biology
This study presents the optimization of the synthesis process of zeolites with high cation exchange capacity using copper mine tailings as raw materials by means of a Central Composite Design. The method consists of two steps: a fusion process with NaOH and the hydrothermal treatment. The results show the formation of zeolite P and cancrinite. Optimal conditions to synthesize zeolite P (94%) are tailings/NaOH weight ratio 1:1.2 (g/g), at 900°C and 2 h (fusion process); 90°C, 102 h and solid/liquid ratio = 0.25 g/mL (hydrothermal treatment). The use of copper mine tailings in the synthesis of zeolites represents benefits to the environmental by the reduction of the amount of tailings to be disposed off. This mitigates the contamination caused by this residue. The product obtained can be used on‐site or off‐site in the remediation of water resources contaminated with metals. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 996–1002, 2018