Sustainable synthesis and characterization of nano zeolite-X from industrial sludge for environmental applications

Abstract

Abstract This study focuses on the synthesis of Nano Zeolite-X from industrial sludge generated by a wastewater treatment plant using a sol-gel method. The fundamental structure of zeolites is an aluminosilicate framework composed of a tetrahedral arrangement of silicon and aluminum ions (Si + 4 and Al + 3 ) surrounded by four oxygen anions(O -2 ). The structural formula of zeolite is based on crystallographic unit cell. Nano zeolites are crystalline, microporous materials with high surface area and adsorption capacities, making them valuable in various applications including catalysis and environmental remediation. The synthesis process involves extracting silica and alumina from the sludge, followed by gelation and thermal treatment to form zeolite structures. XRF analysis emphasized that the amounts of silicon (25%) and aluminum (17%) are essential for the formation of nano zeolite. XRD analysis revealed that the distinct crystalline phases with mean particle size of 36.72 nm, confirmed successful synthesis. SEM images helped support the morphological attributes and show that the nano zeolite has a uniform and porous structure, which is important for improving adsorption properties. FTIR analysis confirmed some of the main functional groups present in the nano zeolite (OH − 3471.04 cm-1, Si-O − 959.83 cm-1), further assessing the integrity of the overall structure of the Nano zeolite. Additionally, BET analysis shows a high specific surface area and favorable pore size distribution, highlighting the material’s potential for effective adsorption. This research focuses on the viability of using industrial sludge as a sustainable raw material for producing Nano Zeolite-X, contributing to waste valorization and the development of advanced for environmental applications.