Abstract

AbstractThe aim of this article is the synthesis and characterization of bentonite‐filled siloxane foams for oil spills recovery. Composite foams at varying filler content in the range 35–45 wt% were investigated. The sorption kinetics and capacity of composite foams in different oils (e.g., kerosene, virgin naphtha, pump oil) were assessed. As a reference, water absorption capacity was also evaluated. Among all, the composite foam filled with 40 wt% bentonite (B‐40 batch) shows the lowest affinity with water and good absorption capacity with oils (mainly light oils) reaching an absorption capacity at saturation equal to 10.3 and 518.2 wt% in water and virgin naphtha, respectively. Furthermore, isothermal absorption curves were analyzed using three kinetic models: pseudo‐first order, pseudo‐second order, and Elovich models. The equilibrium isotherm fitting results were optimal using the pseudo‐second order model, indicating that chemisorption phenomena play a key role in the speed of the absorption phase for these PDMS‐based composite foams. Finally, a correlation was addressed between morphology, foam microstructure, absorption capacity, and kinetics.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.