Scientists from Novosibirsk State Technical University (NSTU) have created a new sorbent material based on graphite oxide, which is promising for water purification.
The researchers modified the traditional method of synthesizing graphite oxide, using five reagents: sodium nitrate, sulfuric acid, potassium permanganate, water, and hydrogen peroxide. The latter was added last, which made it possible to control the properties of the resulting material.
The main task was to increase the porosity of graphite oxide. To do this, the material was heated to 350 degrees Celsius at a moderate rate. As a result, the surface area of the sorbent increased several dozen times.
The resulting material is highly porous and effective for liquid absorption. In addition, when heated, the reduced graphite oxide swells, forming a foam with low thermal conductivity. This property allows it to be used in the creation of non-toxic fire retardant and functional materials.
The development is important for ecology and industry, as it allows creating effective and environmentally friendly sorbents for water purification, as well as materials with additional useful properties.
