Theoretical and experimental investigation on the removal of oil spill by selective sorbents

In this research, oil sorption capacity of natural Peat moss and polymeric sorbents have been studied for the removal of oil spills from aquatic media. A maximum absorption capacity of 22 times its self-weight was observed for Nature sorb, in crude oil. The particle size equivalent of 100 mesh was found to have the maximum sorption capacity. Envirobond 403 provided the best oil retention capacity, with a minimum weight loss of 2.4g/7g of oil. Water contact angle for Nature sorb and Sphag sorb were found to be 104.33° and 73.29°, respectively. FTIR confirms physical encapsulation as the principle of absorption.