Physical Characterisation of a Natural Zeolite using a Scanning Electron Microscopy: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

Zeolite is one of important non-metallic mineral deposites in Indonesia. It has been used for various purposes, including as an adsobent in environmental protection, industry, and agriculture. The most important characteristics of zeolit to be an adsorbent is its surface area and crystal structure. To optimally use zeolite as an adsorbent, it is necessary to understand its physical characteristics. This preliminary study was aimed to characterize physical properties of a natural zeolite obtained from Tasikmalaya, West Java, Indonesia. The zeolite material was crushed into <0.5 mm diameter and divided into two sets of samples. One set of samples was heated in a muffle furnace at 250 oC for two hours and the other set was left untreated. All samples were then observed using a Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The SEM micrographs showed rough and porous structure and defined crystallinity of the zeolite. Thermal treatment at 250 oC increased zeolite crystallinity. These results confirm that this natural zeolite is potential to be used as an adsorbent to remove dissolved metals from acid mine drainage.