Zeolite & Clinoptilolite
Here's a brief description of zeolite, with emphasis on Clinoptilolite, the main ore found at The Rose Claim.
Science calls zeolites "molecular sieves" because they
are able to separate and lock-in or screen out certain molecules,
based on their size. They are used extensively in water purification
processes, as well as in refining oil.
Natural zeolites frequently are found in massive deposits created by
ancient volcanic activity, modified over time to produce a wide
variety of zeolites.
Some zeolite deposits are created from atmospheric fallout of volcanic ash, other zeolites are formed by molten ash pouring onto the surface through a fissure, rather than falling from the air. These are likened to a mushroom, with a stem and top area.
Probably the most important member of the zeolite family of minerals is named Clinoptilolite. A single rock, the size of an apple, contains millions of tiny, nano tunnels and caves that are so small they can only be detected by electron microscopes or X-Ray Diffraction Analysis.
Clinoptilolite has a high affinity for ammonium ions and it is used in tertiary water treatment systems. Municipal effluent is treated by passing it through columns packed with Clinoptilolite to reduce the ammonium ion concentration to less than 2ppm.
Clinoptilolite has been used to adsorb radioactive and heavy metal
wastes, as well as treating low and intermediate aqueous waste.
Current users are British Nuclear Fuels in Great Britain, West
Valley Nuclear and Date Ridge National Laboratory. Natural zeolites,
including Clinoptilolite, were used in the clean-up at Three Mile
Island and Chernobyl.
Clinoptilolite is used in many odor control applications because of
its absorbent and adsorbent qualities. Numerous household products
have been developed and Clinoptilolite is now being used in certain
cosmetic products.
It is also used as an additive in adhesives and a
filler for paper and plastic products. And it is used as a lightweight
aggregate in the manufacture of concrete and cement specialty
products like statues and outdoor tables and benches.
Clinoptilolite is also a livestock feed supplement that has been used in
foreign countries for over a hundred years and is now being used in
the United States. Many swimming pool filters now use Clinoptilolite
instead of sand, and air conditioner filters have been developed also.
It is an excellent soil additive that is used on many golf courses
and lawns because it releases nutrients slowly over a period of
time.
Science continues to discover and develop new uses for zeolites,
especially Clinoptilolite. The list of products and applications
goes on and on. The Internet contains a multitude of information and
zeolite products, far too numerous to mention here.