Advances in the Use of Zeolites for Industrial Effluent Treatment and Carbon Dioxide Mitigation: A Review
Source abstract
Abstract
The increasing emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) and the discharge of industrial effluents containing heavy metals and organic compounds represent major global environmental challenges. In this context, zeolites have gained prominence as versatile materials due to their high surface area, well-defined microporosity, ion-exchange capacity, and potential for chemical modification. Recent studies have emphasized the use of alternative and sustainable silica and alumina sources for zeolite synthesis—such as rice husk ash (RHA), coal fly ash (CFA), metakaolin (MK), and other industrial residues. These synthesis routes not only reduce production costs but also promote waste valorization, aligning with circular-economy principles. This review discusses recent advances in the application of waste-derived zeolites for two strategic purposes: (i) the purification of industrial effluents, with emphasis on the removal of heavy metals and dyes, and (ii) CO2 capture for climate-change mitigation. Adsorption mechanisms, the influence of the Si/Al ratio (SAR), structural modifications, and challenges related to stability, regeneration, and economic feasibility are critically analyzed. Finally, future perspectives are outlined, highlighting the potential of sustainably sourced zeolites as innovative materials for environmental remediation and carbon capture.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Zeolite Catalysis and Synthesis · Adsorption and biosorption for pollutant removal · Subcritical and Supercritical Water Processes
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria 97105900, Brazil
Geology and Geophysics Research Group—NGA, University of Vale do Rio dos Sinos, São Leopoldo 93022750, Brazil
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