zeoliittiryhmän

Zeoliittiryhmän refers to a group of minerals known as zeolites. These are hydrated aluminosilicate minerals that have a framework structure composed of interconnected silica and alumina tetrahedra. This unique structure creates a network of pores and channels within the mineral, which are of crucial importance to their properties. These pores are large enough to allow molecules of certain sizes to enter and exit, leading to zeolites being classified as molecular sieves. The presence of water molecules within these channels is also characteristic, and their removal or reabsorption is a key feature of zeolite behavior.

Zeolites exhibit ion-exchange capabilities, meaning they can readily exchange the cations within their framework for other cations present in the surrounding solution. This property is widely exploited in various industrial applications. Their porous nature and ion-exchange capacity make them effective adsorbents, catalysts, and ion exchangers. They are naturally occurring but can also be synthesized in laboratories with tailored properties for specific uses.

Naturally, zeolites are found in volcanic rocks and in cavities of basaltic rocks. Their formation is typically associated with the interaction of volcanic materials with water. The specific composition and structure of different zeolites vary, leading to a diverse range of properties and applications. This group encompasses a wide array of mineral species, each with its own unique chemical formula and structural arrangement.