Clinoptilolite–heulandite polymorphism: structural features from computer simulation

Abstract

Static lattice computer modelling techniques are applied to investigate the framework and extra-framework cation distribution in clinoptilolite/heulandite zeolitic materials. The results emphasise the close coupling between the framework Al distribution and the location of the extra-framework cations. In the majority of the polymorphs, Al is predicted to be preferentially localised at the T2 and T3 crystallographic sites. Extra-framework cation distributions are often controlled by a strong driving force for the location of Ca²⁺ close to Al-rich regions. Cation–cation repulsion also play a substantial role in controlling the position of extra-framework cations. We find significant differences in both the distribution of Al in the framework and in the location and distribution of the extra-framework cations depending on the exact composition of the heulandite-structured material considered.