Zeolites application in terrestrial and space industry – a review

Abstract

This brief overview presents an attempt to systematize some of the available historical and recent data on the impact of zeolite science and engineering on the progress of various areas of Earth and Space development. The basic structural and chemical properties of natural and synthetic zeolites are presented. Valuable applications of the zeolites, such as catalysts, gas adsorbers and ion exchangers are also included. The most commonly used methods for the synthesis of zeolites from different materials are presented, as well as some Bulgarian developments for the reuse of waste materials to zeolites. The important role of zeolites as an indispensable material for improving the quality of soil, fuels, water, air, etc., required for the needs of orbiting space stations and spacecrafts has been confirmed by typical examples.