Molecular sieve type 3A

Molecular sieve type 3A is a type of zeolite with very small pores approximately 3 angstroms (0.3 nm) in diameter. Due to its properties, it can adsorb small-sized molecules, making it highly effective for selective adsorption.

For example:

• Water (H₂O) — the main application: drying of gases and liquids;
• Ammonia (NH₃);
• Methanol (CH₃OH).

At the same time, larger molecules such as ethanol (C₂H₅OH), butane, or long-chain hydrocarbons cannot enter the pores and therefore are not adsorbed.

Main applications of 3A molecular sieve:

• Drying of natural gas and biogas — removes water vapor without adsorbing larger molecules (e.g., hydrocarbons).
• Drying of hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and helium — often used in industrial installations to achieve extremely low moisture levels.
• Used for drying ethanol, methanol, and other alcohols — allows achieving a high degree of dehydration, for example in the production of anhydrous ethanol.
• Removal of water from liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), propane, and butane.
• Used during storage and transportation of hydrocarbons to prevent corrosion and hydrate formation.
• As an adsorbent in packaging to maintain a dry environment.
• Used in product concentration or purification processes.