Sugar Based Gelator for Oil Spill Treatment
摘要
Oil spills pose significant threats to the environment, demanding effective cleanup strategies. This chapter investigates the utilization of sugar-based gelators, specifically low molecular weight carbohydrates, for oil spill treatment. Through a detailed classification, we emphasize the structural features and gelation characteristics of D-glucose derivatives and disaccharide derivatives as efficient low molecular weight gelators (LMWGs). The natural origin, biodegradability, and stabilizing gel network formation ability of sugar-based gelators make them invaluable in mechanically addressing oil spills. This study employs a supramolecular gelation approach, employing glucose-derived organogelators and hydrogelators, showcasing their remarkable efficiency in transforming spilled oil into a manageable gel-like state. This process enables straightforward removal and recovery through heating, providing a robust cleanup method. Our research contributes to a deeper understanding of the specific advantages offered by D-glucose and disaccharide derivatives as LMWGs in oil spill treatment. By highlighting their structural attributes and gelation efficiency, this chapter underscores the potential of sugar-based gelators as a crucial component in addressing environmental challenges.