One-step synthesis of modified graphene aerogels for the adsorption of chloroform, toluene, and gasoline using pine wood chips as raw material

Three-dimensional self-assembled pine sawdust modified graphene aerogel (PPG) was prepared in a simple and low-cost manner. This preparation successfully utilized forestry waste and enabled a one-step synthesis of PPG for the adsorption of chloroform, toluene, and gasoline in simulated seawater. The introduction of the sawdust yielded significant improvement in the mechanical properties, adsorption capacity, and hydrophobicity of the graphene aerogel. A water contact angle of 153.9° and adsorption capacities of 44–63 g/g were obtained for chloroform, toluene, and gasoline, which were better than those of the graphene aerogel (PG) without the addition of pine sawdust. PPG can be regenerated by repeated heat treatment or combustion. The adsorption capacity of PPG remained at ~90% and ~70% of the initial value after 2 and 10 cycles, respectively. With good adsorption selectivity, high adsorption capacity, thermal stability, and good recoverability, PPG is expected to be a potential candidate material in the field of seawater purification.