4A zeolite is used as an environmental replacement for phosphates in laundry detergents, exhibiting strong calcium ion exchange capacity and compatibility. As a detergent builder, Zeolite A was developed specifically as an environmentally preferable alternative to phosphate builders, which can cause eutrophication of freshwater bodies by nourishing excessive amounts of algae.

Zeolites possess a number of advantages over other builders during the production of detergents. With regards, zeolites display very high product stability, regardless of the particular process employed (spray drying, granulation, extrusion etc). They prove inert when exposed to elevated temperatures, mechanical influences or alkalinity.

The high flexibility of zeolites with respect to formulation and ease of processing together with the economic advantage of the raw material have led to it becoming an extremely attractive builder.