Natural-basalt-originated hierarchical nano porous zeolite with strong and selective gas separation capability

Abstract

Nanostructured zeolite 13X, synthesized from basalt rock via alkali fusion and hydrothermal procedures, demonstrates excellent adsorption performance for light gases (CO2, CH4, N2, and H2). Its robust CO2 separation properties, evident in the adsorption capacity and selectivity order (CO2 >> CH4 > N2 >> H2). The measured adsorption isotherms fit well with the Sips equation, and heterogeneous adsorption behaviors correlate with the isosteric heat of adsorption and adsorption energy distribution. Predicted selectivities via ideal adsorbed solution theory range from 990 to 1,415 (CO2/H2), 244–360 (CO2/N2), and 135–254 (CO2/CH4), indicating significant potential for adsorptive CO2 separation.

Keywords

• Adsorption
• basalt rocks
• zeolite 13X
• light gases
• selectivity