Characterisation of Kapiri Mposhi aluminosilicate minerals

Abstract

Zeolites have become recognized as the most important authigenic silicates in sedimentary rocks of volcanic origin. Along with smectites and other clay minerals, they are sensitive indicators of geochemical reactions on rocks. However, there have been few investigations on the chemistry, origin, and applications of zeolites. This study aims to characterize the zeolite group of minerals with respect to composition, crystal structure and physical properties. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and wet chemical analysis have been used to characterize the Kapiri Mposhi aluminosilicate minerals. The characterization indicates that the major component in the mineral is calcium aluminium oxide. Loss on ignition was found to be 0.22%. Thermal analysis revealed the existence of an endothermic peak at 100-300oC due to dehydroxylation and this was accompanied by 30% mass loss.