The Effect of Chemical Activation Using Base Solution With Various Concentrations Towards Sarulla Natural Zeolite

Material characteristics analysis of Sarulla natural zeolite (SNZ) with base activation has been carried out. The base used was NaOH at various concentrations; 0.2 M, 0.5 M, and 2 M. Base activated catalysts were characterized by X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier-transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and gas adsorption analysis using BET method. The procedures applied have caused differences in adsorption and desorption rates as well as the crystallinity values of the catalytic materials. Moreover, the ratio of Si/Al contents has also changed at the lowest concentration. On the other hand, the crystallinity of catalysts has decreased at the highest concentration of base applied. The results are reinforced in FTIR characterization which shows the changes of silanol bonds to become silicate and aluminate. Furthermore, morphological analysis of the catalysts shows that homogenous surface was obtained at low concentration, while rough/lumpy surfaces was obtained at higher concentration.