Tjokorde Walmiki Samadhi
Petroleum tanker and other modes of oil spill incidents pose an ever-present risk to vulnerable marine ecosystems in Indonesia. This research focuses on the development of a basic element in the oil spill incident response system, namely oil spill sorbent boom for the containment and reduction of oil spill in bodies of water. Emphasis is given on the chemical modification of natural fibers that are locally available, to improve their oil sorption capacity. Modification methods range from simple one-step benzoylation to sophisticated nanoparticle/silane treatment processes that aims to produce superhydrophobic fibers. Product characterization shall provide insight on the effect of fiber modification processes on their surface tension, morphology, and distribution of coating material. These characteristics are then correlated with the macroscopic performance variables of the sorbent boom, namely buoyancy, oil sorption and retention capacities and how these change with repeated use. Variables in the main experiment include types of oil spilt, raw and treated fiber types, and mixtures of fibers. Where possible, a mixture- or factorial-type of statistical experimental design shall be employed to optimize fiber blend and treatment combinations. The research is planned to involve one group of Undergraduate students, and one Master student. The combined outputs targeted in this research are equivalent to 7.5 units.