Durability of KMI Zeolite in Sports Fields Infill Applications
The report prepared by LuVerne E. W. Hogg for Arenito Minerals and Chemicals Corporation, at the request of KMI Zeolite Inc., investigates the durability of KMI zeolite in sports field applications, particularly focusing on its performance during hydration/dehydration and freeze/thaw cycles. KMI zeolite is noted for its high purity (97%) and absence of clays, which are known to degrade when exposed to water. The report emphasizes the importance of using X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analyses to assess zeolite purity.
The findings indicate that KMI zeolite exhibits no degradation or swelling during repeated hydration and dehydration cycles, confirming its stability in various applications, including water filtration and as a desiccant. The hydration/dehydration tests demonstrate that the zeolite maintains its structural integrity and performance without any adverse effects.
Additionally, the report details a freeze/thaw cycling test conducted in November 2014, where KMI zeolite was subjected to repeated cycles of freezing and thawing. The results showed that the zeolite remained unaffected by these conditions, further supporting its durability. The report concludes that KMI zeolite is thermally stable and resilient against moisture, freezing temperatures, and extreme heat, asserting that these environmental factors do not contribute to its degradation in sports field infill applications.
This research paper is significant in the field of materials science and sports field management, as it provides empirical evidence regarding the durability of KMI zeolite, a material increasingly used in sports field infill. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions about the suitability of various infill materials, particularly in terms of their performance under varying environmental conditions. By demonstrating the stability and resilience of KMI zeolite, the report offers valuable insights for sports field designers, maintenance professionals, and environmental engineers, highlighting the benefits of using high-purity zeolite in applications where durability is critical. The research supports the notion that KMI zeolite can enhance the longevity and performance of sports fields, making it a favorable choice for stakeholders in the industry.
