Abstract
Extensive processes and costly precursors for the fabrication of existing sorbents for oil spills urges to look for more renewable sorbent sources. In this work, hollow, tubular, cellulosic fibers (kapok, Ceibapentandra) were successfully converted to carbon sponges by pyrolysis at increasing temperature and time. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the complete carbonization of the kapok fibers at 800 °C. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images revealed that the carbonized kapok fibers maintained their original tubular structures, suggesting high surface area. Water contact angle measurement showed improved hydrophobicity, with a maximum value of about 135°. The carbonized fibers were able to hold selected organic and oil solvents ranging from 16-20 times the weight of the fibers. The fiber pyrolyzed at 400 °C for 0.5 h showed the highest sorption capacity at 45.56 g/g for palm oil, almost matching that of raw kapok.
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