Esterification of kenaf core fiber as a potential adsorbent for oil removal from palm oil mill effluent (POME)

Palm oil mill effluent (POME) is a major contributor to industrial oily wastewater in Malaysia, demanding effective treatment solutions. This study explores the potential of esterified kenaf core (EKC) fiber as an oil adsorbent for oil removal from POME, optimized using a full central composite design (CCD) within the response surface methodology (RSM) framework. The optimum conditions achieved 76% oil removal efficiency, with a 1:0.5 ratio of mercerized kenaf core to stearic acid (MKC:SA), 15 wt% of catalyst, and 1 h reflux time during the esterification process. The regression model exhibited strong predictive capability, with a significant quadratic correlation and an R2 value of 0.94. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed the existence of ester functional groups characterized by significant hydrophobicity and a decrease in hydroxyl groups, indicating the chemical changes of EKC. Moreover, the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) research demonstrated structural alterations in EKC, including heightened surface roughness, fibrillation, and pore development, which improved oil adhesion relative to raw kenaf core (RKC). These findings indicate that EKC provides an effective, environmentally sustainable solution for managing oil wastewater issues in the palm oil sector, facilitating enhanced ecological sustainability and resource management.

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