ZEOLITE
Zeolites are hydrated alumino-silicate minerals of alkali and/or alkaline earth elements (Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺), belonging to the tectosilicate family.
They are primarily found in diagenetized pyroclastic rocks (tuffs, ignimbrites). Their distinctive microcrystalline structure gives them important water retention and cation exchange properties. There are 52 natural species of zeolite, with chabazite and clinoptilolite being the most widely used in agriculture.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CHABAZITE AND CLINOPTILOLITE?
From a mineralogical perspective, chabazite and clinoptilolite mainly differ in their geological origin.
Chabazite forms from typically fluid, alumina-rich magmas, whereas clinoptilolite originates from more viscous magmas, which are poorer in alumina. This results in a greater imbalance of electric charge. Consequently, chabazite has higher water retention and cation exchange capacity—not only compared to clinoptilolite, but also to all other natural zeolites.*
Other differences lie in cation content and crystal structure:
Chabazite crystals are pseudo-cubic and rich in calcium and potassium, whereas clinoptilolite crystals are lamellar and richer in sodium. The rougher structure of chabazite also provides better mechanical barrier properties.
Discover the micronized zeolite that regulates leaf wetting, combats insects, and reduces sunburn damage!
WHAT ARE THE APPLICATIONS OF ZEOLITE IN AGRICULTURE?
Thanks to its water retention capacity, cation exchange ability, and natural potassium (K) content, chabazite zeolite is ideal both as a soil amendment and as a foliar support treatment.
It enhances the soil’s water-holding capacity and improves hydrogeological parameters. Additionally, it increases the CEC (cation exchange capacity) of agricultural soils by temporarily capturing ammoniacal nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium from fertilizers and gradually releasing them in line with the crop’s phenological needs.
Due to its ability to capture ammoniacal nitrogen, chabazite zeolite significantly reduces the hydrogeological pollutant load of livestock effluents (slurry, manure, poultry litter), while also enhancing their fertilizing potential.
At the foliar level, zeolite performs several key functions:
– Reduces leaf wetness through its water retention properties
– Forms a mechanical barrier against external agents (insects, fungi, etc.)
– Acts as an adhesive agent when mixed with other formulations
These properties make chabazite zeolite suitable for all types of crops, from grapevines and olives to fruits, vegetables, and arable crops.
Furthermore, chabazite zeolitite is approved for use in organic farming under Legislative Decree 75/2010 of the Italian Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policies.
WHY CHOOSE BAL-CO CHABAZITE ZEOLITE?
Bal-Co’s decades of experience in mineral processing allow us to offer premium-quality chabazite zeolite.
We supply two main products: ZEM70 for foliar application and ZEP70 as a soil amendment.
Thanks to in-house processing and a state-of-the-art laboratory, we ensure maximum reliability and quality across our product line!
* SOURCE: “The contribution of zeolitites to the mitigation of environmental issues”, Prisa & Passaglia, 2016
