Acridine-Peptide Conjugated Nanofiber Assembly Triggers Stimuli-Free Immobilization of Crude Oil and Read-Out by Turn-On Emission

Nanomaterials that can perform cascading functions in the domain of rapidity and strength of self-assembly, able to immobilize a large mass with minimum energy, and generate optical signal hold potential to contain recurring oil-spills and remediation of land or water bodies. Herein, we report the stimuli-free, phase-selective immobilization of naturally occurring heavy crude oil. Molecule(s) described herein are capable of forming nanofibers with large-area junction zones and instantaneously immobilize petroleum products (PPs), and also report the event with a turn-on emission. The extraordinary efficiency of 0.4 kg immobilizer per ton of petrol and wide operational temperature range (up to 330-360 K) stems from the rapid creation of advanced assemblies having strength (>10(5) Pa) akin to the robust polymeric fibers. Thus, this new generation of intelligent nanomaterials with ingrained information to carry out multiple and complex function in tandem offers bright prospects to control and effectively detect the oil spill menace in a proficient manner.

Automated summary

This study reports a stimuli-free, phase-selective immobilization of naturally occurring heavy crude oil using nanomaterials. The nanomaterials can instantaneously immobilize petroleum products and generate optical signals. They have high immobilization efficiency and a wide operational temperature range, making them promising for controlling and detecting oil spills.