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 can withstand extreme weather conditions without degradation, making it suitable for use in sports field infill applications.
This article 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 environmental stressors. By demonstrating that KMI zeolite can withstand hydration/dehydration and freeze/thaw cycles without degradation, the report offers valuable insights for engineers, landscape architects, and sports facility managers looking for reliable materials that enhance the longevity and performance of sports fields. The technical data presented also serves as a reference for future research and development in zeolite applications.
