Sulfuric acid dissolution of 4A and Na-Y synthetic zeolites and effects on Na-Y surface and particle properties

•Dissolution and recrystallization occurs in 4A and Na-Y zeolite treatment by H2SO4.•Na-Y zeolite shows rapid dissolution/dealumination followed by Si recrystallization.•Changes in EN ratio follows BE shifts as the acid concentration increases.•Peak of particle size changes from 1124.7 to 399.4μm after acid treatment.