Effect of Micronaire on Oil Sorption Capacity of Three Different Types of Greige Cotton-Based Nonwoven Substrates

Satisfactory oil sorption properties and biodegradability of natural fibers have generated renewed interest in the development of oil sorbents for potential use in the cleanup and recovery of offshore oil spills. The objective of this study was to compare the oil sorption capacity of three different types of nonwoven substrates made with two distinctly different grades of greige (raw) cotton of low and high micronaire. These substrates included a needlepunched fabric, a hydroentangled fabric, and a bundle of only loose cotton fibers. The study showed that substrates made with low micronaire cotton exhibited a greater oil sorption capacity compared to those made with high micronaire cotton. The loose-fiber substrate had a greater oil sorption capacity compared to the other two types of substrates.