Abstract

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Zeolite Y was synthesized using commercial sodium hydroxide and Kankara kaolin as starting material in the presence of sodium silicate formed from kaolinite clay. Synthesis was done at 90°C, 95°C and 100°C for crystallization time of 12, 18, 24 and 36 hours. Results showed that commercial sodium hydroxide could be used to successfully produce zeolite Y from Kankara kaolin when gelling ratios of =30, =0.8 = 0.7 are used. Zeolite Y with the best crystallinity was produced at 90°C for 18 hours. Crystallisation of zeolite materials from kaolin and low grade NaOH is quite different from commercial zeolite because the sources of Si and Al are relatively less reactive due to the presence of competitive cation ions, like K+, Mg2+, present in the monomer. Additionally, the sodium silicate, selectivity induces the formation of zeolite NaY and eliminate the processes of induction and nucleation. Cost analysis per unit catalyst, showed an overwhelming $185.524 difference between imported high grade chemicals and local chemicals in favour of locally obtained chemicals. The as-synthesized zeolite was characterized using XRF, XRD and SEM analyses. The resulting NaY zeolite can find application in refining process, as shown by the XRD results

Keywords: NaY, Crystallization, dealumination, Kankara kaolin, sodium silicate