High-Performance Three-Dimensional Aerogel Based on Hydrothermal Pomelo Peel and Reduced Graphene Oxide as an Efficient Adsorbent for Water/Oil Separation.

In this study, HPP-RGO aerogels, which were based on a hydrothermal pomelo peel (HPP) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO), were fabricated by using a green and eco-friendly two-step hydrothermal method. The characterization results showed that the HPP-RGO aerogel was endowed with extremely low density, high specific area, robust thermal stability, good mechanical property, stable acid-alkali resistance, superior recyclability, and excellent hydrophobicity and lipophilicity. Remarkably, the typical 40%-HPP-RGO aerogel presented a preferable adsorption capacity (45-80 g·g-1). Moreover, continuous water/oil separation was achieved via the water ring vacuum pump. The successful preparation of the HPP-RGO aerogel endows the pomelo peel with high value-added properties and improves the comprehensive utilization of agricultural wastes. Furthermore, it would open up bright prospects for the field of oil adsorption and water/oil separation.