Silica decorated CNTs sponge for selective removal of toxic contaminants and oil spills from water

This work demonstrates the bulk synthesis of silica (SiO2) decorated carbon nanotubes (CNTs) sponge using chemical vapor deposition method which induces highly interconnected, porous and low density material. These CNT sponges coupled with SiO2 nanoparticles proved to be unique reusable sorbent materials, able to remove oil and organic contaminants from water due to ultra-light weight, super-hydrophobicity, high thermal stability, high porosity and strong oleophilic character. These porous materials do not absorb water and has preferential selectivity for organic compounds including oil and organic solvents. These interesting materials exploit a sustainable and practical solution for water treatment and environmental protection making them efficient absorbents. (C)2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.