Zeolite in agriculture: An amendment in improving physical and chemical properties of soil

Abstract

Zeolites are hydrated aluminosilicate minerals composed of interlinked tetrahedra of alumina (AlO4) and silica (SiO4), possessing a unique three-dimensional crystalline structure. They are classified into natural and synthetic forms. Zeolites are widely utilized in agriculture due to their exceptional cation-exchange capacity, high porosity and ability to retain nutrients and water. Key applications include enhancing nutrient use efficiency, improving soil physical and chemical properties, increasing water use efficiency, boosting crop yields, enhancing organic manure efficiency and mitigating heavy metal contamination in soils. Zeolites function as slow-release carriers of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, reducing nutrient losses to the environment and enhancing fertilizer efficiency. Their selective ammonium retention ability aids in nitrogen management, while their structural properties improve soil conditions, particularly in arid, sandy or nutrient-poor soils. Zeolites also enhance water retention without compromising aeration, leading to improved water use efficiency. Additionally, zeolites facilitate controlled release of herbicides and pesticides, minimizing environmental risks. Zeolites play a pivotal role in heavy metal remediation by immobilizing toxic ions thus mitigating their phyto-availability.