Study of packing density and temperature on the oil sorption capacity of packed local kapok fiber as bio-oil spill absorbent

Abstract

Oil spills are global concern due to the environmental impact and consequence of release of affluence. Various commercial products have been development and create to control spills, including the use of fibers as sorbents. This study investigates the use bio-based material of kapok fiber as sorbent materials for oil spills absorption. The study characterized the chemical and morphological properties of kapok fiber, experiment conducted involved FTIR and SEM analysis. Sorption tests with oil were conducted in deonized water thickness of oil and water. Oil sorption capacity by kapok fiber was strongly influenced by packing densities and temperatures. As packing densities and temperatures increased, oil sorption capacity of kapok fiber was reduced proportionally. Kapok shows excellent buoyancy and very high hydrophobicity and oil sorption capacity. The research has shown that kapok fiber can be adapted for sorbent materials for oil spills.