Synthesis, Characterization and Evaluation of Organophilic Bofe Clay for Use in the Removal of Oil Effluents

Abstract

This objective of this study was to produce organoclay, analyze it, and evaluate its use in the process of removing oil emulsion from an oil–water system. The organoclay was prepared by the direct method and was characterized using X-ray diffraction, Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), and Infrared Spectroscopy (IV). A finite bath system was used to evaluate the effects on the removal capacity, using a stirring speed (A) of between 100 and 300 rpm and an initial concentration of oil-water solution (C0) evaluated in the range of 100 to 500 mg/L. The XRD and infrared results indicated that CTAC was intercalated between the layers of Bofe clay. The percentage of oil removal from oil-in-water emulsions was between 55.99 and 96.62%. These results indicate that OC can potentially remove up to 97% oil from oil-in-water emulsions. Consequently, the OC could be considered an excellent medium for treating oily water.