Title : Development of GO-SiO2 based superhydrophobic surface for oil and water separation
Abstract:
Hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity are largely governed by surface roughness and surface free energy. In this study, a sol-gel technique was used to introduce silica nanoparticles onto graphene oxide nanoparticles, followed by silane modification, to enhance the hydrophobic properties of carbon fibre. The structural and surface characteristics of the modified material were analyzed using various techniques. The results demonstrated that the treated carbon fibre exhibited superhydrophobicity with a high-water contact angle of 166.2° and excellent superhydrophobicity, enabling efficient oil absorption. These properties were achieved through the synergistic effect of increased surface roughness and reduced surface free energy. The modified carbon fiber was tested for oil-water separation, where it displayed exceptional selectivity, high absorption capacity, and stability over multiple cycles. The material effectively absorbed various oil types while repelling water, making it a promising candidate for environmental applications. Additionally, the carbon fibre recyclability and long-term durability further enhanced its potential for practical use in oil spill cleanup and wastewater treatment. This study highlights the effectiveness of graphene-silicon based materials in addressing water pollution through advanced surface engineering. The combination of sol-gel processing and silane treatment offers a simple yet efficient approach to developing high-performance superhydrophobic materials for sustainable environmental remediation.
