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Updated: Jun 3, 2025

Two-way Valorization of Blast Furnace Slag: Synthesis of Precipitated Calcium Carbonate and Zeolitic Heavy Metal Adsorbent
Published on: February 21, 2017
Rapid CO2 mineralization by zeolite via cation exchange
Abdulwahab Alqahtani1, Mouadh Addassi2, Hussein Hoteit2
1Physical Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955, Saudi Arabia. abdulwahab.alqahtani@kaust.edu.sa.
Zeolite minerals, like stilbite, show high potential for mineral carbonation. Rapid sodium-calcium exchange in zeolites facilitates efficient CO2 capture, outperforming traditional silicate methods.
Area of Science:
- Geochemistry
- Mineralogy
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Zeolite minerals are common in basaltic rocks and known for cation exchange.
- Mineral carbonation is a key process for CO2 sequestration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mineral carbonation potential of zeolite minerals, specifically stilbite.
- To understand the mechanism and rate of CO2 mineralization by stilbite.
Main Methods:
- Closed system batch reactor experiments at 60°C using stilbite and sodium carbonate solutions.
- Analysis of solids using scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis.
- Chemical analysis of reacted stilbite and precipitated calcite.
Main Results:
- Extensive calcite crystal formation observed, indicating efficient carbonation.
- Over 5% CO2 mineralization achieved within a month, approaching theoretical maximums.
- Rapid Na-Ca exchange mechanism identified, driving faster carbonation rates.
Conclusions:
- Zeolite-mediated mineral carbonation is significantly faster than silicate dissolution.
- Subsurface mineral carbonation efforts should consider zeolite-rich rock formations.
- Zeolites offer a promising pathway for accelerated carbon capture and storage.
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