Work

Repurposing Quality-Downgraded Fluorinated Carbon Nanotubes as Eco-Additives in Microgel Composites for Sustained Water Release

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: While significant efforts have been made to recycle metals like lithium or cobalt for sustainable development in the battery industry, other high-value materials in the renewable energy sector, such as fluorinated carbon nanotubes (FCNTs), have not been adequately explored for re-utilization after their quality has been downgraded. FCNTs are expensive and energy-intensive to produce, making their sustainable use crucial. This study explores the potential of reusing quality-downgraded fluorinated carbon nanotubes (QD-FCNTs) as eco-friendly nano-additives in microgel composites for water retention applications. By employing a surface treatment process that avoids additional energy costs and environmentally harmful chemicals, we successfully enhanced the interaction between QD-FCNTs and microgels. This treatment significantly improved water retention time by reducing rapid evaporation, enabling sustained water release. Our findings demonstrate a promising avenue for the sustainable application of quality-downgraded fluorinated carbon nanotubes in agricultural and environmental technologies.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su16219468

Authors: Favour Levechi Ezeogu, Gunendra Prasad Ojha, Promise Uzoamaka Otuokere, Mohammad Tarequl Islam, Tony Grady, Yunxiang Gao

Institution: Prairie View A&M University

Language: English

Topic: Polymer-Based Agricultural Enhancements

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Clean water and sanitation, Affordable and clean energy, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,728