Overview of Current and Future Perspectives of Saudi Arabian Natural Clinoptilolite Zeolite: A Case Review

After a thorough review of existing studies of clinoptilolite zeolites, three areas for potential investigation of the Saudi Arabian zeolites were found. They are the characterizations, the catalytic activity, active sites, and uses of natural clinoptilolite zeolites. First, no analysis is available worldwide to compare the percentage weight of local zeolites with those sourced from other countries, nor does one exist for the establishment on the zeolite conversion of MBOH with water on acidic catalysts at lower temperatures. Secondly, a review of current literature on the topic revealed that basic and active sites of Saudi Arabian zeolites have yet to be examined. Future investigation of zeolite catalytic activity can be achieved by methyl butynol test reaction (MBOH) and absorption-desorption of ammonia. In the characterization of a range of international materials, the methyl butynol test reaction was utilized, including on natural zeolites, natural clays, and synthesized hydrotalcites. However, the catalytic performance of natural Saudi Arabian clinoptilolite zeolites by test reaction of MBOH conversion has not been yet investigated. Therefore, this article also includes an outline of the general testing conditions and parameters required to execute the accurate characterization of local Saudi clinoptilolite under optimal test conditions. Likewise, knowledge of the important active acidic centers of local materials is prescribed. This can be ascertained by determining the conditions together with the test parameters for the application of the “temperature-programmed desorption of ammonia” method in order to obtain an accurate determination of local Saudi clinoptilolite acidic centers. Additionally, an outline of the catalytic activity of worldwide clinoptilolite is given in this article together with kinetic investigations of other sources for the clinoptilolite zeolite in order to form the basis for the testing of local Saudi clinoptilolite. The percentage average of chemical composition (Wt.%) of natural clinoptilolite from various countries is also included. Finally, a future research plan is proposed here. This will form the basis for a complete study or survey to be compiled detailing the modifications needed to increase the surface areas for Saudi natural clinoptilolite zeolites using different methods of modifications. This could enhance its application as acid catalysts for use in the retardation of coke formation and for membrane separation on cationic exchange.