Solar reduced graphene oxide coated sponge for oil and organic solvent adsorption studies

Abstract

In this work, we have synthesized solar reduced graphene oxide (SRGO)by facile, fast and cost effective technique. The as-prepared SRGO was coated on polyurethane sponge and used for oil adsorption from the oil-water interface. The material was characterized by x-ray diffraction spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy for structural, surface and morphological analysis. Further the hydrophobicity of the graphene coated sponge was investigated by measuring the contact angle of water droplet with the graphene coated sponge. The graphene coated sponge demonstrates strong hydrophobicity along with oleophilic property. SRGO coated sponge shows high adsorption and achieves equilibrium in few seconds. Highest adsorption capacity has been obtained for tetrahydrofuran, which is 65.67 g/g. SRGO coated sponge prepared could be a desirable material for cleanup of oil spills in sea.