Synthesis and Characterization of Cellulose Based Materials and their Applications in Environmental Remediation

Abstract

Polymers are relentlessly consumed in all the fields of science and technology. The polymers prevalently used globally are none other than synthetic polymers, which are derived from non-renewable energy resources. The severe downside of utilizing synthetic polymers lies in their disposal after usage. These polymers are very stable and are non-biodegradable and as a result, last in the environment for several decades. Biopolymers derived from natural resources can overcome these drawbacks. Natural polymers are in general biocompatible and degrade facilely without causing any harm to the environment. In this light, cellulose, the most abundant natural polymer, is chosen for the present study. Chapter 1 delivers a brief introduction to natural polymers and a detailed preface to cellulose. Besides, a general introduction is provided describing different types of water contamination. Further, frontier research activities involving various forms of cellulose in water treatment are highlighted. Following this, the chapter furnishes research plan, significance of the work, theme of the thesis and objectives as well. Chapter 2 deals with the synthesis, characterization and application of polythiophene functionalized cellulose sponge and cellulose fabric for oil-water separation. The polythiophene functionalized cellulose materials display very high water contact angles. The modified cellulose sponge is used as an oil/organic solvent absorbent, and the absorbed oil/solvent is recovered through simple mechanical squeezing. On the other hand, the modified cellulose fabric is used as a continuous filter for a quick separation of oil (and organic solvents) from water, with very high separation efficiency .Chapter 3 gives details on the synthesis, characterization and application of CuO nanoparticles coated cellulose sponge as a heterogeneous catalyst for the reductive decolourization of various toxic cationic and anionic dyes, in the presence of a reducing agent. ./