Israeli Researchers Develop Novel Aerogel for Oil Spill Cleanup
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS French by baba
Israeli scientists at Ben-Gurion University have developed a cellulose-based aerogel that efficiently absorbs oil spills and simultaneously supports bacteria that degrade the hydrocarbons. The material, which floats and can absorb up to 100 times its weight in oil, has shown promising results in lab tests, breaking down oil in weeks, and could offer a more effective solution for future environmental disasters.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israeli researchers created a novel aerogel for oil spill cleanup.
- The material absorbs oil and aids bacterial degradation.
- It can absorb 80-100 times its weight in hydrocarbons.
- The aerogel is made from recycled cellulose fibers.
- Large-scale trials are needed before practical deployment.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have created an innovative aerogel material designed to combat oil spills by combining oil absorption with bacterial degradation. The material, made from cellulose fibers potentially sourced from recycled paper products like old newspapers or egg cartons, is extremely porous and treated with nitrogen and phosphorus to nourish oil-eating bacteria. Initial laboratory tests show the aerogel can absorb 80 to 100 times its weight in crude oil, fuel, and tar. Its hydrophobic nature allows it to float and directly contact oil slicks.
The key innovation lies in the aerogel's dual function: not only does it capture hydrocarbons, but it also acts as a scaffold for bacteria, bringing them into close proximity with the oil while providing essential nutrients. This creates a micro-environment that accelerates biological remediation. Professor Ariel Kushmaro, who co-leads the research with Dr. Danit Lisa Karsagi Biron, stated that in experimental conditions, the oil disappeared within two to three weeks. This approach could also reduce the volume of contaminated material requiring disposal.
The production process involves lyophilization and pyrolysis, a heat treatment performed without oxygen. The findings were published in Chemical Engineering Journal Advances. Potential applications include dispersing the material over offshore spills or having ships carry it for immediate response to leaks.
However, the technology is still in its early stages. Large-scale sea trials are necessary before deployment. The research team plans to conduct its next test in a contaminated marina. Ben-Gurion University's tech transfer company, BGN Technologies, is handling intellectual property protection. Energy giant Shell has reportedly expressed interest in the invention.
The development holds particular significance for Israel, recalling a major 2021 oil spill that coated 160 kilometers of its Mediterranean coastline. The researchers aim for their technology to enable faster intervention in future similar disasters.