Synthesis of new magnetic reusable oil sorbent catalysts based on dodecanol and dodecyl sulfate: their application for oil/water separation

Abstract

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were treated with dodecyl sulfate (DS) and dodecanol (DO) to enhance their affinity for lipids. Various methods, such as X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), vibrating sample magnetometery (VSM), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and FTIR spectroscopy were employed to analyze and characterize these modified MNPs. The functionalized MNPs were employed to adsorb different types of oils (edible, motor, and diesel oils). MNP@DO and MNP@DS exhibited oil absorption capacities of up to three and two times their own mass for edible oil, respectively. The complete repulsion of water was evident, and a rapid interaction between lipophilic magnetic catalysts and oil on the water’s surface was observed. These oil-absorbing catalysts could be efficiently removed by employing an external magnet, and they demonstrated excellent reusability. The findings indicate that these novel catalysts exhibit substantial oil-absorbing capabilities and can be used as low-cost and effective technique for oil/solvent-spill cleanups.

Highlights