Applications of Zeolites in Environmental Remediation

The use of natural zeolites and their modified forms in environmental remediation reflects their effectiveness, abundance, and relatively low production cost. By combining innovative technologies with research on natural zeolites, several important environmental applications have been developed. These include the separation, binding, and chemical stabilization of hazardous and/or radioactive species, such as Cs and Sr, in soils and waters impacted by nuclear operations and accidents. In the case of hazardous waste, zeolites can be used to transform pollutants into stable materials suitable for final disposal. They can also remove naturally occurring pollutants from drinking water, which is crucial in a world where many people still lack access to safe water, and they can improve soils to support sustainable agriculture.