Detergents

Due to the Ion exchange ability hydrated cations within the zeolite pores are bound loosely to the zeolite framework, and can readily exchange with other cations when in aqueous media. Applications of this can be seen in the use of zeolites in detergents and soaps.

The largest volume use for zeolites is in detergent formulations where they have replaced phosphates as water-softening agents. They do this by exchanging the sodium in the zeolite for the calcium and magnesium present in the water. It is even possible to remove radioactive ions from contaminated water.

The largest single use for zeolite is the global laundry detergent market, which amounted to 1.44 million metric tons in 1992.

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