Brazilian Kaolin Wastes: Synthesis of Zeolite P at Low-Temperature

The synthesis of zeolite in forms suitable for industrial applications is of great importance, mainly as ion exchange material, molecular sieves, adsorbents and catalyst. This paper deals with synthesizing zeolite P using waste kaolinite as starting material (from Brazilian industry ores). The material was characterized by chemical element analysis (FRX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared and Raman spectroscopies. With promissory results, although traces of other zeolitic products, such as Zeolite LTA and Zeolite Y, the XRD characteristic peaks attributed to the formed zeolite were confirmed by the 39-0219 (NaP1) cards of JCPDS. The synthesis products are of interest as they can be used in several environmental applications. The photocatalytic activity of prepared material was tested for discoloration process of Remazol Golden Yellow (RNL) dye in aqueous solution under UV irradiation.