Comparing Zeolite 3A, 4A, and 5A in UAE: Features, Uses & Prices
Zeolite molecular sieves are among the most widely used adsorbents in industrial applications across the UAE. From gas drying and oxygen separation to moisture removal in solvents and plastics, these crystalline aluminosilicates offer precise molecular selectivity based on pore size. In this guide, we compare the three most popular grades: Zeolite 3A, Zeolite 4A, and Zeolite 5A.
We’ll break down their structure, applications, key differences, and pricing in the UAE market to help you choose the right option for your business.
What Are Zeolite Molecular Sieves?
Zeolite molecular sieves are synthetic or natural aluminosilicates that feature a uniform network of pores and cavities. They are named based on the effective pore size in angstroms (A), which defines the size of molecules they can adsorb:
- Zeolite 3A: 3 angstrom pores
- Zeolite 4A: 4 angstrom pores
- Zeolite 5A: 5 angstrom pores
These sieves are available in beads, pellets, or zeolite molecular sieve powder form depending on application.
Explore Zeolite Molecular Sieve Products →
Comparison Table: Zeolite 3A vs 4A vs 5A
| Feature | Zeolite 3A | Zeolite 4A | Zeolite 5A |
| Pore Size (Angstroms) | 3A | 4A | 5A |
| Chemical Exchange Ion | Potassium (K+) | Sodium (Na+) | Calcium (Ca2+) |
| Moisture Adsorption | Very High | High | High |
| Selectivity | Water only | Water, methanol, CO2 | Water, O2, N2, paraffins |
| Common Form | Beads, pellets, powder | Beads, pellets, powder | Beads, pellets, powder |
| Industrial Uses | Ethanol drying, plastics | Gas drying, coatings | PSA, paraffin separation |
| Price Range (AED/kg) | 18–25 | 12–20 | 20–30 |
| Regeneration Temp (C°) | 200–300 | 200–300 | 250–350 |
Zeolite 3A Molecular Sieve: Structure & Applications
Zeolite 3A molecular sieve is a potassium-exchanged version of Zeolite 4A, which reduces its pore opening to 3 angstroms. This makes it ideal for adsorbing moisture while excluding larger molecules like hydrocarbons.
Key Features:
- Pore Size: 3A (3 angstroms)
- Form: Beads, pellets, powder
- Fast adsorption speed for water
Common Uses:
- Drying of unsaturated hydrocarbons (ethylene, propylene)
- Drying of ethanol and methanol
- Packaging moisture protection
- Pharmaceuticals and plastics industry
Zeolite 3A Price in UAE:
- AED 18–25/kg depending on form and quantity
Zeolite 4A Molecular Sieve: Versatile & Cost-Effective
Zeolite 4A molecular sieve is the sodium form and the base structure from which 3A and 5A are derived. With 4 angstrom pores, it can adsorb water, ammonia, CO2, and methanol while excluding larger molecules.
Key Features:
- Pore Size: 4A (4 angstroms)
- Versatile adsorption range
- Commonly used and most economical
Common Uses:
- Refrigerant drying
- Compressed air and natural gas drying
- Drying of solvents and coatings
- Household and industrial desiccants
Zeolite 4A Price in UAE:
- AED 12–20/kg (bulk pricing available)
Zeolite 5A Molecular Sieve: Precision Separation
Zeolite 5A molecular sieve is the calcium-exchanged form of 4A, expanding its pore size to 5 angstroms. It adsorbs all molecules that fit within 5A diameter and is used where molecular separation is critical.
Key Features:
- Pore Size: 5A (5 angstroms)
- Excellent selectivity
- Strong physical hardness
Common Uses:
- PSA oxygen and hydrogen generators
- Separation of normal/iso paraffins
- Drying of freon gases
- Air purification and gas phase filtration
Zeolite 5A Price in UAE:
- AED 20–30/kg depending on grade and form
Zeolite Molecular Sieves 13X: A Broader Option
While not the primary focus, Zeolite molecular sieves 13X (10A pore size) are used for adsorbing larger molecules like sulfur compounds and CO2 in gas treatment and air purification systems.
Choosing the Right Zeolite for Your Application
- Choose Zeolite 3A when you’re drying highly reactive or polar solvents and need to avoid adsorption of larger molecules.
- Go with Zeolite 4A if you want a cost-effective and versatile moisture adsorbent.
- Select Zeolite 5A for precise gas separation or PSA oxygen/hydrogen generators.
If you’re unsure, speak with a trusted distributor or chemical engineer to match your operational requirements.
Why Source Zeolites from Oozechem?
Oozechem is recognized as one of the best chemical suppliers in Dubai UAE, offering high-quality zeolite molecular sieves tailored for different industries. Whether you’re in oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, packaging, or air separation, Oozechem provides:
- Technical-grade and food-grade zeolites
- Fast UAE-wide delivery
- Expert product recommendations
- Competitive pricing and bulk deals
Browse Zeolite Molecular Sieves at Oozechem →
Final Thoughts
Zeolite 3A, 4A, and 5A molecular sieves each offer unique properties tailored to different separation and drying needs. Selecting the right one depends on your target molecules, operating conditions, and regeneration methods.
With support from trusted suppliers like Oozechem, UAE industries can confidently source the right zeolite grade for optimal efficiency and performance
