The invention involves the use of graphitic carbon nitride (GCN) for oil recovery in aqueous environments. This material is versatile and can be applied to nearly all types of oils. GCN is synthesized through a single-step facile process, using melamine as a precursor and heating it at 700°C in an argon atmosphere. The resulting porous structure serves as an efficient sorbent material for oil recovery from water sources in case of spills. Additionally, the absorbed oil can be effectively removed by burning the oil-containing GCN in air, making the material reusable for further oil sorption. The oil can also be easily recovered through minimal heating in a controlled atmosphere.
Figure (1) Time-stamp showing the sorption of used engine oil spread on artificial seawater by GCN; (2) Plot showing the % adsorption by GCN (having a fixed mass) of different oils, i.e., used engine oil, crude oil, diesel, and kerosene, for the first time (i.e., in the as-synthesized condition) and also upon reuse of the same GCN material after burning in oil. *2nd and 3rd adsorption capacities correspond to the re-use of the same GCN material after burning off the adsorbed oil in the air (following the preceding experiment)
Any major oil spill poses a significant environmental threat, potentially causing long-term ecological damage that could take decades or even generations to repair. Quick recovery efforts can prevent permanent harm and potentially salvage the spilled oil for reuse. However, the rapid recovery of spilled oil is both challenging and costly. Effective oil removal requires sorbents capable of efficiently absorbing oil traces from water. Existing sorbent materials are often coated with hydrophobic substances, are expensive, or have complex synthesis processes.
- One-Step Synthesis Process: Synthesizes graphitic carbon nitride (GCN) through a simple, one-step method that is efficient and user-friendly.
- High Hydrophobicity: Exhibits very high hydrophobicity, making it ideal for the selective sorption of oil from water.
- Scalable and Cost-Effective Production: The synthesis process is fast, inexpensive, and easily scalable, making it suitable for large-scale industrial production.
- Reusability of Material: Enables effective removal of sorbed oil without damaging the GCN structure, allowing the material to be reused multiple times.
- Eco-Friendly and Biocompatible: The material is both biocompatible and environmentally friendly, supporting sustainable applications.
- Thermal and Air Stability: GCN is air-stable and not susceptible to degradation from heat or fire, enhancing its durability in various conditions.
The method defined for oil recovery using graphitic carbon nitride (GCN) involves dispersing the GCN material over oil-contaminated surfaces, where it effectively adsorbs spilled oil and oil products. Once adsorption occurs, the oil-saturated GCN can be collected either for disposal or for recovery of the absorbed oil. Oil recovery can be carried out by gently heating the material in a controlled atmosphere, while disposal may be achieved by burning the oil- containing GCN in air. The material has demonstrated an absorption capacity greater than 100% for various oils in less than 60 seconds. Laboratory testing confirmed that the GCN material remained stable and reusable even after 20 cycles of use.
The invention is at the stage of demonstration and/or validation in lab environment.
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The invention addresses a critical environmental challenge by enabling fast, efficient, and sustainable recovery of oil from contaminated water bodies. Major oil spills can lead to catastrophic consequences for marine ecosystems, affecting biodiversity, fisheries, and coastal livelihoods for years or even decades. By providing a reusable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly sorbent material, this technology not only minimizes environmental damage but also reduces the long-term cleanup costs and complexity. It supports global sustainability efforts by offering a green alternative to conventional synthetic sorbents, many of which are toxic, non-recyclable, or require complex production processes. Furthermore, its ability to allow oil recovery for potential reuse contributes to circular economy practices and resource conservation.
- Oil Spill Response and Cleanup: Applicable in emergency spill response operations in marine and freshwater environments.
- Shipping and Maritime Industry: Can be used onboard ships and tankers for accidental oil discharge mitigation.
- Offshore and Onshore Oil Drilling Sites: Useful for cleaning oil leaks and accidental discharges during extraction and transportation.
- Oil Refining and Petrochemical Plants: Helps manage routine oil residues and spillages in processing facilities.
- Ports, Harbors, and Coastal Installations: Effective for managing oil contamination in docking and loading areas.
- Environmental Protection Agencies: Assists in monitoring and mitigating the environmental impact of oil spills.
Geography of IP
Type of IP
202021028731
403321