Abstract

Diatomaceous earth is one of the most interesting materials found in different parts of the world. In Poland, Jawornik Ruski in the Podkarpacie region has the only active diatomite mine. Polish diatomaceous earth fields with an average SiO2 content of 72% were found in the Carpathian Mountains in the Leszczawka region. Geological data indicate at least 4 large deposits of this material, but one deposit (Jawornik) is under development. Diatomaceous earth from Polish deposits is different from other raw materials of similar origin diatomite . More recently, it has been the subject of intensive scientific research aimed at its widespread use in industry, breeding and agriculture. This locally occurring material has different properties than other such materials found in other regions, which is why it is important to study it in terms of its potential uses. The balance resource is estimated to be around 10 million tonnes, so its economic utilization can have an impact not only locally but globally. Despite the differences in chemistry and phase composition associated with competing diatomaceous earths, it is hypothesized that suitable processing parameters can be selected on the basis of a series of investigations into the properties, such that even if the raw material is not of the best quality, an optimum in terms of adsorption parameters can be obtained. products of competitors. In the current study, we used the Westinghouse method to determine the extent of absorption by diatomaceous earth, along with research methods such as particle size analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Specific surface area measurements were determined using single-point and multi-point Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) methods. The results of physicochemical analysis of diatomaceous earth and the absorption of petroleum substances are presented. As a result of diatomite the research, it was found that diatomaceous earth originating in Poland may have an absorption capacity of oil derivatives at a level of about 130% by weight. This result has important commercial implications, as the degree of absorption is superior to other competing materials. This material can be successfully used to clean up various oil spills and environmental hazards. The findings also have economic implications, as using locally available raw materials to produce the highest quality sorbents can reduce transportation costs and thus reduce environmental impact. Furthermore, the production of highly efficient sorbents reduces the consumption of raw materials and the waste of sorbents impregnated with petroleum-derived substances. It is estimated that the production of the sorbent using the parameters described here results in savings of approximately 30% compared to popular competing materials from other sources.