Abstract
This study presents the development of a novel cellulose@Fe₃O₄@ZIF-8 carbon aerogel magnetic adsorbent derived from Prosopis farcta biomass for efficient Gasoil removal from aqueous solutions. The composite material was synthesized through a solvothermal method, combining the porous structure of ZIF-8, magnetic Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles, and carbonized cellulose fibers. Comprehensive characterization using FT-IR, XRD, SEM-EDS, VSM, BET, and contact angle measurements confirmed the successful integration of components, revealing a hierarchical pore structure (micropores: 1-2 nm; mesopores: 14.84 nm average size). The adsorbent exhibited exceptional Gasoil adsorption capacity (7 g*g(-1)) and 100% removal efficiency under optimized conditions (0.1 g adsorbent dose, 0.5 g Gasoil, and pH 7.5), as determined by the Design of Experiment. ANOVA analysis highlighted the dominant effects of Gasoil weight (A), adsorbent weight (B) and, while pH showed negligible impact. Adsorption isotherms followed the Freundlich model (R² = 0.93), indicating multilayer adsorption on heterogeneous surfaces. Thermodynamic studies revealed spontaneous (ΔG < 0), exothermic (ΔH = - 259.98 J*mol(-1)), and entropy-driven (ΔS = 18.66 J*mol(-1)*K(-1)) adsorption. The material demonstrated rapid magnetic separation (< 10 s) and maintained 90% efficiency after 8 regeneration cycles. FT-IR spectra confirmed chemical interactions (π-π stacking, hydrophobic bonding) via peak shifts (C = C: 1558 → 1566 cm(-1); new C-H stretches at 2853/2953 cm(-1)). Compared to conventional adsorbents, this aerogel outperformed in capacity, reusability, and emulsion prevention due to its unique structure.