Application of modified ash-tree sawdust for oil removal from water surfaces

Abstract

This paper shows the study on the possibility of using ash-tree (Fráxinus excélsior) wood-working waste for removing heavy-oil products from aqueous surfaces by sorption method. In order to improve sorption properties, ash-tree sawdust was exposed to ultrasound treatment at 35000 Hz for 5 hours in aqueous environment. Waste diesel engine oil was used as a sorbate. The physico-mechanical properties of modified sawdust are determined: bulk density, buoyancy, moisture content, ash content and physicochemical characteristics of sorbate. The simulation of motor oil spills on the water surface was carried out; oil and water absorption were determined. It was shown that ultrasound-modified ash-tree sawdust is an effective sorbent, the degree of water purification from oil hydrocarbons amounted to 98-99% under static adsorption conditions.