Zeolite 13X modification with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)

In this study, the zeolite 13X was organomodified with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The zeolite modification decreased the sodium content which indicates that the modification is carried out by ion exchange mainly on the external surface of the zeolite. The modification process with GABA created edges and smaller particles which correspond to the partial transformation from zeolite X (FAU) into zeolites Y, SOD, and GIS. The chemical environment changed by modifying the zeolite 13X with GABA, this helped to retain creatinine and urea. This type of material is promising for medical applications in dialysis devices due to the relatively rapid removal of uremic toxins. [Display omitted] •The zeolite NaX was organomodified with GABA through ion exchange.•Ion exchange occurs mainly on the external surface of the zeolite.•The modification process with GABA partially transforms zeolite NaX into zeolites Y, SOD and GIS.•The modification process with GABA improved the removal efficiency of creatinine and urea.