The ammonium form of natural zeolite, natrolite, obtained by vapor pha
se ion exchange is similar to calcium-containing zeolites of the natro
lite group in its de-and rehydration characteristics and the heats of
immersion in water. The adsorption capacity and the heat of immersion
in water are maximum after evacuation of the zeolite at 200 degrees C.
The irreversible sintering of NH4 natrolite occurs above 200 degrees
C (up to 45% at 500 degrees C), accompanied by the formation of hydrox
yl groups.