Cotton From Industrial Waste Modified for Effective Absorption of Oil Spills

Abstract

A primary emphasis of this investigation is the utilization of discarded cotton fiber. Oil sorbent from cotton was developed by changing the hydrophilic surface of waste cotton fiber to a hydrophobic surface by acetylation treatment. Change in the surface structure of the fiber was confirmed by confirmed through various analytical techniques, including Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, drop shape analyzer (DSA100), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Compared to commercial oil sorbents (polypropylene), diesel and engine oil were shown to have much greater oil sorption capacities (20.07 and 23.89 g/g, respectively). Acetylated cotton fibers are easily disposed of after the fifth cycle and have remarkable oil sorption capacities (23.89 g/g). After the fifth cycle, regenerated sorbent is eco-friendly and can supply biopower plants. They also support environmental sustainability goals.