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ZEOLITE
Zeolites
are volcanic minerals that were formed around 300 million years ago. The classical definition of a zeolite is a crystalline, porous alumino-silicate. There are about 45 natural zeolites and their properties
depend on conditions during formation. Not all perform in the same way.
The unique three-dimensional
(tetrahedral) crystalline structure gives zeolite a far greater surface area for
activity than other alumino-silicates. A visual description of the structure
would be that of a series of three dimensional four sided prisms connected in
such a way to form layered lattice work. It has been calculated that, if laid
out flat, one gram of our chosen zeolite would cover several football fields in
area.
How do they work?
Zeolites act as
ion-exchange agents, which due to a unique configuration of alumina and silica
oxides have a high negative charge. They are graded on the basis of their cation
exchange capacity. The higher the exchange capacity the better the drawing
power will be.
Powdered Zeolite is a chalky substance which is easy to mix and
does not clump. Thus it is just a matter of adding water and it's ready to
use.
The negatively charged ions of
zeolite give it the ability to attach (adsorb) and then (absorb) lock away and
neutralise positively charged substances such as environmental pollutants. Zeolite can be used in body wraps, foot wraps, facials and
poultices when mixed with clay. Zeolite is a chalky substance that needs a
base to bind as a paste. Thus it can be combined with our Bentonite Clay in
a 50/50, 75/25 ratio or any personal preference you so desire.
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