Development of a new hydrophobic magnetic biochar for removing oil spills on the water surface

More technologies are urgently needed for combined use to effectively eliminate the effect of oil spills, an environmental problem of widespread concern. Among these technologies, sorption methods are available to remove residual oil and prevent the further spread on the water surface. In this study, biochars, prepared from different feed-stock materials and pyrolysis temperatures, were screened and further modified to improve their application in the water environment. Among cornstalk biochar (CSBC), corncob biochar (CCBC), Sophora sawdust biochar (SSBC), and rice husk biochar (RHBC), the CSBC had excellent oil sorption capacity, especially prepared at 350 degrees C (CSBC350), which has a complete and full pore structure. Furthermore, magnetic and silane agent modifications of CSBC350 (OMBC) were performed to enhance the properties of the magnetic field controllability and hydrophobicity to increase oil sorption. The OMBC exhibited satisfactory oil sorption capacities to crude oil, diesel oil, and engine oil in the water-oil system of 8.77 g g(-1), 4.01 g g(-1) and 4.44 g g(-1) respectively. The sorption process of CSBC350 and OMBC complied with the pseudo-second-order kinetics (R-2 >0.97) and the Langmuir isotherm models (R-2 >0.80) based on the highest regression coefficients. The sorption mechanisms are dominated by hydrophobic forces, pore intercepts, and hydrogen-bond interactions. The biochar adsorbent can availably cooperate with other physical methods to eliminate oil contaminants, which can be an outstanding fuel source for producing heat.

Automated summary

More technologies are needed to effectively eliminate oil spills. This study focused on sorption methods, specifically using biochars prepared from different materials and temperatures. The cornstalk biochar (CSBC) showed excellent oil sorption capacity, especially when prepared at 350 degrees C (CSBC350). Further modifications were done to enhance the magnetic field controllability and hydrophobicity of CSBC350, resulting in satisfactory oil sorption capacities. The sorption process followed pseudo-second-order kinetics and the Langmuir isotherm models. The sorption mechanisms involved hydrophobic forces, pore intercepts, and hydrogen-bond interactions.