Optimizing Melamine Sponges Modified With Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles for Environmental and Industrial Applications

Zhang T, Han L, Yang G, Schubert DW, Duan C (2024)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2024

Journal

Journal of Applied Polymer Science Wiley

DOI: 10.1002/app.56661

Abstract

This study explored the development and characterizations of a lightweight, cost-effective, and easily accessible titanium dioxide (TiO2)/melamine sponge with outstanding hydrophobicity, oil absorption/separation, flame retardancy, durability, and electromagnetic wave absorption capacities. Commercial melamine sponges were modified using the silane coupling agent and TiO2 nanoparticles via a solution-immersion method. Scanning Electron Microscopy revealed the structural integrity and surface morphology with increased surface roughness and uniform distribution of TiO2 particles. The hydrophobicity of the TiO2/sponge was confirmed by contact angle measurements, showing a high value of 145°. The oil absorption capacity and separation efficiency were also quantified, with the modified sponges able to absorb oils at 70 to 120 times their weight while maintaining a separation efficiency above 95% even after 10 reuse cycles. Additionally, the TiO2/sponge exhibited excellent flame resistance, strong mechanical abrasion resistance, and stability in saline environments. Electromagnetic absorption tests over the 2–18 GHz range showed efficient absorption, with reflection loss values below −10 dB at higher frequencies for thicker sponges. These results suggest that TiO2/sponge composites provide multifaceted enhancements, making them suitable for various environmental and industrial applications, including oil spill management and electromagnetic radiation mitigation.

Authors with CRIS profile

Guanda Yang Lehrstuhl für Werkstoffwissenschaften (Polymerwerkstoffe) (LSP) Dirk Schubert Lehrstuhl für Werkstoffwissenschaften (Polymerwerkstoffe) (LSP)

Involved external institutions

Guangdong Ocean University CN China (CN) Guangdong Polytechnic Normal University CN China (CN)

How to cite

APA:

Zhang, T., Han, L., Yang, G., Schubert, D.W., & Duan, C. (2024). Optimizing Melamine Sponges Modified With Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles for Environmental and Industrial Applications. Journal of Applied Polymer Science. https://doi.org/10.1002/app.56661

MLA:

Zhang, Taochuan, et al. "Optimizing Melamine Sponges Modified With Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles for Environmental and Industrial Applications." Journal of Applied Polymer Science (2024).

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