Adsorption What is a molecular sieve (zeolites) and what are its types?
The article describes the types of molecular sieves (synthetic zeolites) and their application. The review shows the 3A, 4A, 5A and 13X screens and describes their properties.
What is a molecular sieve?
Molecular sieves are synthetic zeolite materials with a precisely defined and uniform porous structure. Thanks to their unique properties, these materials are used for the selective separation of gases and liquids and for drying air and gases when the required dew point temperature is below 60°C.
What are the types of molecular sieves?
The main types of molecular sieves are 3A, 4A, 5A and 13X. Individual types differ in chemical composition and pore diameter, which are 3, 4, 5 and 10 angstroms, respectively. The difference in pore size allows selective adsorption of molecules of a certain size.
Synthetic zeolite with a pore size of 3 angstroms. All molecules larger than this value will not be adsorbed. This material is suitable for for drying ethanol, insulating glass and hydrogen.
4A molecular sieve
This adsorbent has a pore size of 4 angstroms. All molecules larger than 4 angstroms will not be adsorbed. Widely used for drying gases and liquids, especially natural gas and air.
5A molecular sieve.
It is a synthetic zeolite used mainly for drying natural gas and for separating nitrogen and carbon monoxide from reaction gases. Allows you to achieve a high level of moisture removal. It is often used together with a 13X molecular sieve, where 5A acts as an adsorbent for nitrogen and carbon monoxide, and 13X is responsible for removing carbon dioxide.
It is a synthetic zeolite with a pore size of 10 angstroms. Widely used for drying gases and liquids. It is also used to separate carbon dioxide from process gases and air. Allows you to achieve low temperature dew point values.
If you need help in choosing an adsorbent for the process, please contact us! Our specialists will be happy to help you choose the right solution. rest!
You can also find more information on our website dedicated to adsorption technology!
