Green synthesis of superhydrophobic cotton filters using Pistacia atlantica gum for efficient oil and water separation

Abstract In this study, a novel hydrophobic polysulfide (NPS) reagent was synthesized using Pistacia atlantica gum and sulfur powder under hydrothermal conditions. Boehmite (γ-AlOOH) functionalized with curcumin (BCur) and TiO2 nanoparticles were coated with the NPS reagent. Subsequently, cotton fab...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Zahra Seifi, Ali Ashraf Derakhshan, Ali Rostami, Laleh Rajabi
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Nature Portfolio 2025-04-01
Series:Scientific Reports
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Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-96721-0
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Summary:Abstract In this study, a novel hydrophobic polysulfide (NPS) reagent was synthesized using Pistacia atlantica gum and sulfur powder under hydrothermal conditions. Boehmite (γ-AlOOH) functionalized with curcumin (BCur) and TiO2 nanoparticles were coated with the NPS reagent. Subsequently, cotton fabrics were dip-coated separately with NPS, NPS-BCur, and NPS-TiO2, resulting in the fabrication of superhydrophobic filters with water contact angles (WCA) exceeding 150°. The reagents and coated fabrics were thoroughly characterized using FT-IR, XRD, TGA, SEM, X-ray mapping, and WCA measurements. The filters demonstrated exceptional performance in separating oil-water mixtures, achieving separation efficiencies of 91–98.6%. Even after 20 recycling cycles, negligible changes were observed in WCA and separation efficiency. The use of natural materials, eco-friendly synthesis, high durability, and outstanding separation performance underscore the sustainability and practicality of these superhydrophobic cotton fabrics.
ISSN:2045-2322