Zeolites are a group of naturally occurring or synthetic minerals that have a unique crystalline structure and porous nature. They are widely used in various applications due to their exceptional properties, such as ion exchange, adsorption, and catalytic properties.
In terms of zeolites market by type, synthetic zeolites dominate the market. The demand for synthetic zeolites as adsorbents is anticipated to drive the demand due to the increase in water purification and wastewater treatment operations.
In terms of application, gas adsorbents dominate the zeolites market. Zeolites are used in liquid and gas phase separation processes as adsorbents. The rising demand for gas drying applications is boosting the market. Synthetic zeolites are used for the removal of H2O, CO2, and SO2 from natural gases. They are commonly used in industrial gas drying, separation applications, and purification.
Arkema S.A., Albemarle Corporation, Clariant AG, BASF SE, W.R. Grace, Honeywell International Inc., Tosoh Corporation, Zeotech Corporation, Saile Industries, Gujarat Credo Mineral Industries Ltd, Dalian Haixin Chemical Industries Co. Ltd are some of the top zeolites manufacturers globally.
Zeolites are widely used as catalysts in the petrochemical industry to improve the efficiency of various processes, such as cracking, hydrocracking, and isomerization. The increasing demand for petrochemical products is driving the demand for zeolites.
Zeolites are used for water and wastewater treatment applications due to their high porosity, large surface area, and high cation exchange capacity. Zeolites are used as adsorbents to adsorb the contaminants in water by the ion exchange mechanism. Zeolites are used in water purifiers and water softeners to treat the turbidity in water, adsorb pathogens and bacteria, and remove heavy metal concentrations. They are used for wastewater treatment, radioactive water treatment, pollution control, and for the treatment of water used in aquaculture. Improving lifestyles and increasing awareness of waterborne diseases, the zeolite demand will boost in the forecast period.
Synthetic zeolites are used to hold onto the nutrients in the soil and release them gradually. Due to their high porosity, synthetic zeolites are able to store large quantities of water and therefore they can sustain soil moisture levels by hydrating and rehydrating, which prevents the soil from drying out during drought or water shortage.
Synthetic zeolites are favored over natural zeolites because, with the aid of chemical characteristics and pore diameters, they may be created and will exhibit superior hydrothermal stability. In the construction business, they are mostly employed as additives in the mixing of asphalt concrete since they help to reduce the temperature during asphalt production and installation. This reduces the usage of fossil fuels and the emission of carbon dioxide and aerosols.
Synthetic zeolite production costs are one of the most main challenges facing this sector. Another challenge is the logistical restrictions that increase shipment expenses. Zeolites can be expensive to produce, which may limit their adoption in certain applications, particularly those with low-profit margins. Some types of zeolites are rare and difficult to obtain, which may limit their usage in certain applications. A rise in gasoline prices may increase transportation costs, which is projected to act as a zeolite market restraint.
Health and safety concerns
Zeolites may contain impurities, such as heavy metals, that can be harmful to human health and the environment if not properly handled and disposed of. This may limit their adoption in certain applications and require stringent safety measures.
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