Application of Acid Treated Clay in the Recycling of Used Engine Oil

Abstract

This research investigates the effect of acid treatment on the physio-chemical properties of clay by applying the modified clay in treating waste lube oil. Clay sample was obtained, prepared and treated with sulphuric acid (H2SO4) at different concentrations, activation temperature and time. The modified clay samples obtained were used to treat waste engine oil. Thereafter, the properties of the treated oil samples analyzed and compared with the used engine oil in order to determine the adsorption capacity of the clay. The result of the analysis on the oil samples showed an improvement in the quality of the treated oil properties when compared with the untreated used oil and fresh oil. The increase in acid concentration, activation time and temperature is associated with an increase in flash point, cloud point and a decrease in metal content and viscosity. Therefore, activation time, temperature and acid concentration are proved to be good parameters that can be used to improve the adsorption capacity of clay.