Efficient and Fast Microplastic Separation From Aqueous Media by Electron Beam Assisted Developed Superhydrophobic Jute Fabric

ABSTRACT The accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in various aquatic environments is an alarming problem in the modern world. Hydrophobic surfaces are potential candidates to remove microplastics from water. This work reports the development of a superhydrophobic jute fabric by electron beam radiation‐assisted chemical modification. The required extent of modification for the generation of superhydrophobicity is determined to be ~35 wt%, by varying surface wettability with the degree of modification. Study of tensile testing and surface morphology reveals no alteration of the basic structure and properties of the fabric after modification. The modified jute fabric is then employed for separating some common MPs from water and the successful removal of MPs has been demonstrated. The separation has been tried without solvents and with organic solvents. In the separation process, different organic solvents are found to facilitate the separation of MPs from water with a greater efficiency than the removal of MPs from the aqueous system without oil. In the presence of an oily solvent phase, instantaneous and highly efficient (> 95%) separation of MPs from water is demonstrated, as the MPs are accumulated in the organic phase. The modified jute fabric is found to be satisfactorily reusable for up to 30 using cycles. This simple, one‐step, environment‐friendly process of preparation of superhydrophobic jute and its successful application in separating MPs from water may be a sustainable solution for microplastic‐related environmental issues.