Resumen
Selective adsorption on zeolites X and A was studied with Stevia rebaudiana (Bert.) Bertoni (Asteraceae) extract clarification. Ionic exchanges were made with calcium and barium ions in zeolites NaX and NaA and the effect of contact of aqueous extract of dry Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni leaves with CaX, BaX, CaA and BaA zeolites was evaluated. Stevia extract in contact with the zeolite CaX showed highest clarification and did not present alterations of initial characteristics in concentration, glycosides and flavor. In batch tests at room temperature, the contact of Stevia aqueous extract and CaX zeolite provided 70-80% clarification. Since zeolite may be reused, an approximate clarification of 65-70% is possible in regenerated zeolite.