Synthesis of Superhydrophobic Cellulose Stearoyl Ester for Oil/Water Separation

Abstract

Developing fluorine-free superhydrophobic and biodegradable materials for oil/water separation has already become an irresistible trend. In this paper, we designed two biopolymer oil/water separation routes based on cellulose stearoyl ester (CSE), which was obtained via the acylation reaction between dissolving pulp and stearoyl chloride homogeneously. The CSE showed a superhydrophobic property, which could selectively adsorb oil from the oil/water mixture. Additionally, the CSE was emulsified with an oxidized starch (OS) solution, and the resulting latex was used to impregnate commercial, filter base paper, finally obtaining a hydrophobic and oleophilic membrane. The SEM revealed the membrane had hierarchical micro/nanostructures, while the water contact angle indicated the low surface energy of the membrane, all of which were attributed to the CSE. The membrane had high strength and long durability due to the addition of OS/CSE, and the separation efficiency was more than 99% even after ten repeated uses.

Sponges from Plasma Treated Cellulose Nanofibers Grafted with Poly(ethylene glycol)methyl Ether Methacrylate

“…Although the cellulose peaks are predominant in the FTIR spectra and interfered with the characteristic peaks of acrylate functional groups, new shoulders were observed at 1731 cm −1 in CNF-PEGMMA and CNFpl-PEGMMA. This proves the presence of C=O stretching vibration of the ester bond in the composite sponges [ 27 ] and, therefore, the deposition of polymer onto the surface of cellulose nanofibers. Another characteristic band is around 1420 cm −1 , attributed to CH 2 deformation vibrations, which is useful for identifying the type of crystalline cellulose.…”

Synthesis, Characterization and Performance of Materials for a Sustainable Future

“…A recent focus of investigation is the production of superhydrophobic fluorine-free and biodegradable materials for oil/water separation. Two biopolymer oil/water separation routes in cellulose stearoyl ester were discussed [ 26 ]. Because of its superhydrophobic properties, the material is capable of adsorbing oil from the oil/water mixture with a high selectivity.…”