What is zeolite?

Zeolite is referred to as any member of the family of aluminosilicate minerals that are hydrated, containing alkali and alkaline metals. In 1756 AD, the Swedish geologist Axel Cronstedt coined the term ‘zeolite’. Because this type of rock retains a certain amount of water within itself. Although these days, this term is used to refer to more than 200 diverse mineral substances; and its applications range from softeners (in detergents) to poultry bedding and even industrial catalysts.