Zeolite: Natural Odor Absorber
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 11.12.05
Zeolite is a natural mineral which absorbs odors and excess moisture in the air. It can be used as a general deodorizer and to combat mildew or mould. When used in refrigerators and freezers, it can reduce electricity cost by up to 12% by maintaining optimum humidity, and it helps keep food fresher. Zeolite is usually sold in packets that can be hung in strategic locations.
Zeolite is formed over millions of years as volcanic ash slowly changed and crystallized when exposed to alkaline water. The crystals have an interconnecting lattice structure, forming a honeycomb of interconnecting channels with a negative charge. Within these channels are positively charged ions that attract and trap other materials, including those that cause odors.
Because of the honeycomb structure, zeolite is able to absorb moisture and gas molecules that total about 65 percent of the weight of the zeolite itself. The material has virtually no fragrance, and it releases nothing as it absorbs other materials. A day in bright sunshine is usually enough to release the contaminants and restore the zeolite to working condition. Packets can also be recharged in a 200-degree oven for an hour. The low temperature will keep the plastic bags from melting. (Zeolite itself can withstand temperatures of 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit before it degrades.)
It's available from the Environmental Home Center and Zeolite Depot.
I also use crushed zeolite as part of the filter substrate in my aquarium. Some carbon pellets, a few inches of crushed zeolite like in the photo, and a big sponge for bacteria to grow keep it running smoothly with no water changes or filter cleaning for about 5 years.
I've been told that the dust is dangerous to breathe, but I see no mention of this here or at either of the linked vendor sites. Is this a false alarm?
I use an unscented deodorant that uses Zeolite as an active ingredient. It's called Sharp's Happy Me Pit Guard (at www.sharpsusa.com).
Anyone know of other deodorants that use zeolite?
I believe I bought some of these rocks from the container store; it wasn't labeled zeolite, just odor absorbing 'volcanic rock'. I was a bit disappointed to find, upon opening the plastic package around it, dust and small rocks not contained in the mesh bag falling out. I was a worried about adding volcanic dust to the dust maelstrom that is a normal household's indoor environment; but, I haven't noticed any debris falling from the bag since then, so I guess it's ok. Any information to the contrary would be appreciated!
About its effectiveness: I use it in my kitchen, and it seems to work well in absorbing over time odors that might otherwise hang about.
I found a network marketing company that sells a liquid zeolite that has FDA approval as safe to ingest. I have been having great success detoxing heavy metals and candida the past 4 months without all of the drama. The website is www.mywaiora.com/188199 .