Removal of ammonium ions by using zeolitic wastes

Abstract

In this research the sorption capacity of ammonium ions was investigated by using zeolitic waste FCC catalyst. By using XRD analysis it was determined that maine mineral is zeolite Y which consist of this zeolitic waste. It was used as an adsorbent for petroleum refining during catalytic cracking, and after a certain time it contaminates and becomes a waste. This waste in Lithuania can make up to 200 tons per year. For ammonium removal two types of zeolitic materials were investigated. The first type was used untreated and the second one was activated by integrating in 15 % H2O2 aqueous solution. In our previous works it was determined that the zeolite sorption capability increased (about 1.75 times after 48h) after treatment with a hydrogen peroxide solution, but it wasn't investigated the amonium ion removal. The initial solution for ammonium ion removal were made by using NH4CI solution. Initials concentrations were lmg/1. The experiment werte carry out under dynamic conditions. Sorption durations were from 12 untill 72 hours. The iniatial results show that this type of zeolitics waste are suitable for amonium sorption from water solutions.