Surface functionalization of synthesized sodium alginate from brown algae

What is it about?

This study aims at efficient, economically feasible, and environmentally friendly regeneration of waste lubricant by surface-functionalized bio flocculant via extractive-flocculated technique for maximization of yield. Further, optimization has also been escalated for designing the optimal process parameters (such as reaction time, solvent to waste oil ratio, and bioflocculant concentration) for enhancing the quality and cost effectiveness of the regenerated product. FTIR, SEM, and TGA analysis were used to characterize the synthesized bio-flocculant. GC-MS, FTIR, and NMR analysis were used to characterize the chemical composition, chemical nature, and functional group of virgin, used, and re-refined lubricant. Experimental findings showed that a grafting efficacy of 76% can be achieved with optimal conditions of reaction temperature of 70 �C, irradiation time of 6 min, 2.5 wt. % monomer concentration and 800 W microwave radiation. Maximum yield of 94% can be obtained with optimal process constraints such as reaction time of 60 min, refining temperature of 80 �C, the ratio of solvent and waste oil of 3:1 g/g and 1 g/kg of solvent flocculant dosage, grafting % of 76. Fuel characterization studies reveal that the fuel characteristics of re refined lubricant are analogous to those of fresh oil

Featured Image

Why is it important?

The present investigation deals with the surface functionalization of developed sodium alginate from brown algae using PAM as a monomer and microwave irradiation as free radical initiator to maximize the yield of re refined lubricating oil as well as enhancement in fuel characteristics of re-refined base lubricant. Grafted copolymers that improve flocculation efficacy, are synthesized mainly by numerous techniques The literature survey reveals no evidence of modification and application of bio-polymeric flocculant in the regeneration of waste lubricant.

Perspectives