<![CDATA[NaX zeolite, widely recognized for its applications in cation exchange, adsorption, and catalysis, was successfully synthesized from Blitar natural kaolin using an alkali fusion pre-treatment, followed by two comparative synthesis methods: hydrothermal and sonication. The synthesis was conducted at 70°C for 2 and 4 hours. Optimal conditions were achieved with a NaOH/kaolin weight ratio of 2.0 and a synthesis gel composition of 10SiO2: 1Al2O3: 6Na2O: 180H2O (molar ratio). X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the transformation of natural kaolin into sodium silicate, with sonication yielding phase-pure NaX zeolite, while the hydrothermal method resulted in NaX with sodalite impurities. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy identified characteristic NaX vibrations, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed cubic-shaped particles in the sonication method. The sonication process accelerated crystallization, producing higher-purity zeolite in shorter times than hydrothermal synthesis. These findings emphasize the effectiveness of sonication in enhancing the crystallinity and purity of NaX zeolite, offering a robust, time-efficient alternative for large-scale zeolite production.]]>
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