Russian scientists invent polymer capable of absorbing oil from water

Chemists from the Advanced Engineering School of St. Petersburg State University (SPbU) have created a material capable of absorbing oil from water, TV BRICS reported, according to the university’s portal. The polymer film can be reused; it is strong and does not sink.

The sorbent itself is made on the basis of petroleum products. It is a flexible film consisting of a large number of fibres thinner than 1 micron, forming a sponge-like structure. When the polymer is placed on an oil spill, it begins to absorb the contaminants and gradually darkens. After the cleaning process is completed, the polymer can be wrung out, washed and used again. At the same time, the extracted oil can also be reused. According to the scientists, after five cleaning cycles the sorption capacity of the material decreases by only 15–20 per cent.

The development was tested in conditions close to real ones: the temperature of salt water was lowered to +4℃, and special devices simulated liquid rotation and wave motion. The sorbent did not sink. It is hydrophobic, so it will float on the surface even in rain and rough conditions. The material is lightweight but at the same time strong and elastic.

The university is confident that such a polymer may become one of the tools for combating environmental disasters. Scientists are currently exploring possible applications.

In the BRICS countries, there is concern about environmental issues related to water pollution. In China, a group of researchers from Shanghai Ocean University has developed and introduced a comprehensive ecological water purification system, reports China Daily, a partner of TV BRICS. First, efforts are made to eliminate the source of pollution, then work is carried out in the water body to create conditions for the growth of selected underwater plants. The goal is to create a system capable of self-purification.

In India, scientists from The Energy and Resources Institute presented to the Delhi Department of Environment the results of a study on water quality in the Yamuna River. They identified areas where untreated wastewater and industrial effluents contributed to chemical pollution, foam formation and microplastic accumulation. Experts proposed a number of measures, including improved oxidation processes, biological removal of substances and an enhanced monitoring system, according to a publication by ANI, a partner of TV BRICS.

In Sao Paulo, Brazil, for environmental protection purposes, authorities have decided to collect used vegetable oil. This year, the city managed to collect more than 10 tonnes of used oil and reuse it to produce two tonnes of soap. This helped prevent the pollution of 501 million litres of clean water that would have occurred through improper disposal of the product into the sewage system and the emission of 54.9 tonnes of carbon dioxide that would have been released during oil decomposition, reported the news portal Metrópoles, a partner of TV BRICS.