Mechanism of Hydrothermal Zeolite Crystallization from Kaolin in Concentrated NaOH Solutions (1–5 M): Formation of NaP1, NaP2, Analcime, Sodalite and Cancrinite

Kaolin from the Donigazza deposit (NW Sardinia, Italy) was used to investigate the mechanisms
of zeolite crystallization under alkaline hydrothermal conditions. The starting
material, composed mainly of kaolinite and opal-CT with minor quartz and low iron content,
was reacted with NaOH solutions (1–5 mol L−1) at 100 ◦C for 12–168 h. XRD analyses
revealed the formation of zeolitic and related phases, including NaP1, NaP2, analcime,
sodalite, and cancrinite, with zeolite contents reaching up to 100%. The extent of kaolinite
dissolution varied with both NaOH concentration and reaction time, with complete
transformation occurring at ≥3 mol L−1 and ≥48 h. SEM imaging showed idiomorphic
crystals (100 nm–10 μm) and globular nanoparticles (<50 nm), likely Na-Al-Si gels. Phase
distribution reflected evolving solution chemistry, particularly changes in the Si/Al ratio
due to differential dissolution of opal-CT and kaolinite. Crystallization proceeded via both
classical (monomer addition) and non-classical (particle attachment) pathways, influenced
by supersaturation, gel composition, and reaction kinetics. The transition from NaP1 to
NaP2, and the development of metastable phases, indicate kinetic control consistent with
Ostwald’s step rule. These results provide insights into the complex dynamics of zeolite
formation from natural aluminosilicate precursors in alkaline environments.