A straightforward method to enhance the oil adsorption capacity of cork through Cryo-Ball Milling

Abstract

This work explores a new methodology to enhance the adsorption capacity of cork powder for oil-based substances, emphasizing the impact of particle size and surface characteristics. Cryo-Ball Milling was employed to reduce cork particle size, enhancing the surface-to-volume ratio. By varying milling time and frequency, a range of particle sizes was achieved, with structural analysis revealing that milling disrupts the cork’s honeycomb structure, resulting in a more open and accessible architecture. This structural modification significantly improved oil adsorption efficiency. Cryo-Milling produced smaller and more uniform particles without altering their shape. Adsorption capacity tests identified the active surface area as the critical factor influencing oil adsorption, with a remarkable 150 % increase in capacity observed for a particle size reduction of approximately 60 %. These findings demonstrate that cork powder with reduced particle size is a highly effective sorbent for oil-based substances, offering a sustainable and efficient solution for managing oil spills and waste. This work highlights the potential of engineered natural materials in addressing environmental challenges.