Synthesis and optimization of soy protein fiber based graft copolymer through response surface methodology for removal of oil spillage

Abstract

Present study deals with the development of novel biodegradable polymer device for petroleum fraction removal from different petroleum-saline emulsion. Soy protein fiber was graft copolymerized with poly(methylmethacrylate) using sequential experimental design approach. Six process variables, such as solvent amount, monomer concentration, FAS:KPS ratio, reaction time, reaction temperature, and pH were taken at two levels as per Resolution-V design. Significant process variables were monomer concentration, reaction temperature, and pH. In phase-2, screened variables were taken for model building and optimization as per optimal response surface design. At optimum conditions (monomer concentration: 3.10 mmol L−1; reaction temperature: 84.2 °C; pH 6.03), the graft percentage was found to be 272 %. Graft copolymer was characterized using FTIR, SEM, TGA, DTA, and DTG techniques. Further, graft copolymer was evaluated for acid–base and moisture resistance behavior. The synthesized soy protein fiber based polymer showed 76–70 % petroleum fraction absorption from different petroleum-saline emulsions.