Natural and Modified Zeolite Clinoptilolite with Antimicrobial Properties: a Review

The present review summarizes research on the antimicrobial properties of modified natural zeo¬lite clinoptilolite. The modification of the clinoptilolites is based on its ion exchange features with silver, copper, zinc, or other ions in order to obtain antimicrobial properties. The review includes recent data on pretreatment and preconditioning to increase the effectiveness of ion exchange procedures and obtain a functionalized zeolite. The review covers antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activity materials based on natural zeolite clinoptilolite.