A Comparative Analysis of Oil Sorption Efficiency Between Cotton and Vermiculite Clay

Abstract

Oil spills and petroleum-based pollutants in aquatic environments pose serious threats to ecosystems and human health. Conventional oil sorbents are often costly, synthetic, and non-biodegradable, prompting the need for more sustainable alternatives. This study explores the potential of two natural materials—raw cotton and vermiculite clay—as eco-friendly oil sorbents. While cotton is fibrous and porous with known adsorption properties, vermiculite clay offers a mineral-based alternative with thermal stability and a layered structure. This research aims to evaluate and compare the oil sorption efficiency, retention capacity, hydrophobicity, and selectivity of these materials when exposed to cooking and lubricant oils.