Zeolite particles. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of fragments of a zeolite mineral. Zeolites are microporous, aluminosilicate minerals commonly used as commercial adsorbents. Common mineral zeolites include: analcime, chabazite, clinoptilolite, heulandite, natrolite, phillipsite, and stilbite. Natural zeolites form where volcanic rocks and ash layers react with alkaline groundwater. They have many uses but the largest single use is the global laundry detergent market. Magnification: x512, when printed 10 centimetres wide.