Abstract
The structure of kapok fiber was characterized using FTIR and <TEX>$^{13}C$</TEX>-NMR spectrometers, elemental analyzer, x-ray diffractometer, SEM and IMT I-Solution ver 7.5. The kapok has a hollow tube shape and is composed of cellulose I with crystallinity of 47.95%. To develop novel oil-sorbent materials necessary to avoid the environmental pollution by spilled oil, the oil absorption capacity of various fibers such as kapok, polypropylene(PP), acryl, bamboo, cotton, rayon and wool fibers is compared in this study. The kapok fiber had the highest oil absorption capacity among the fibers and its water absorption capacity was the least. The kapok fiber selectively absorbed significant amounts of oils (43g/g of fiber for kerosene, 65g/g of fiber for soybean oil), which might be due to higher hydrophobicity of the kapok fiber, suggesting that kapok fiber may have high potential as excellent oil-absorbent materials.
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