The ion exchange behaviour of a Na-exchanged sedimentary chabazite for
Pb2+, NH4+, K+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ was investigated. Equilibrium data were
obtained at 25 degrees C for Pb2+, NH4+ and K+ and interpreted in ter
ms of two different cation sites in the zeolite framework. A good sele
ctivity was observed for NH4+ and Pb2+ and the selectivity sequence NH
4+>K+>Pb2+>Na+ was determined. Very low exchange rates were found for
Ca2+ and Mg2+ whereas fast kinetics were observed for NH4+ and Pb2+ ei
ther by chabazite in its original composition or especially by Na-exch
anged chabazite. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V.