Ida-Ore Zeolite, LLC |
Environment Water and Wastewater
Water RetentionZeolite
Na2Al2Si3O10·2H2O Nanoporous CAS Number : 1318-02-1Zeolite is capable of holding up to 60% of its weight in water. Tests have shown Zeolite can increase water infiltration by 7%-30% on gentle sloped land and up to 50% on steep sloped land. Soil moisture can be increased by 0.4%-1.8% in drought conditions and 5%-15% in general water situations Consequently, overland surface runoff is reduced, in turn protecting lands from erosion. Use of soluble N fertilizers is a major cause for groundwater contamination. Zeolite reduces nitrate leaching by inhibiting the nitrification of ammonium to nitrate.
Zeolites ability to retain moisture is another positive aspect for using Zeolite as a soil amendment. Zeolites can hold up to 60% of their weight in water due to the high porosity of their crystalline structure. Zeolite acts as a non-form changing, permanent water reservoir which provides prolonged moisture during dry periods as well as promoting rapid re-wetting and improved lateral spread in the root zone during irrigation. This in turn reduces the quantities of water needed for irrigation.The porous structure of natural zeolite also helps to keep the soil well aerated. Unlike other soil amendments such as lime and clay, Zeolite does not break down over time, but remains in the soil to improve nutrient and water retention which can significantly reduce costs of water and fertilizers over time (Demir H, 1993). Zeolites porous structure will not clog soil pores over time like clay will.