Osorb Absorbent Nanomaterial Cleans up Toxic Water

Chemist Paul Edmiston discovered Osorb, a glass nano-material that absorbs oil and contaminants from water, while researching explosive detection. Supported by the National Science Foundation, Edmiston and ABS materials are developing water remediation technologies using Osorb. The material is manufactured by combining glass molecules, water, and a catalyst, and it swells to absorb toxins. Osorb is crucial for cleaning industrial water contaminated by processes like agriculture and oil drilling. It also addresses environmental challenges, such as oil spills and water management from oil wells.

What was Paul Edmiston originally researching when he discovered Osorb?

• Processes to manufacture glass

• Techniques to purify drinking water

• Ways to detect explosives

• Methods to clean oil spills

What is the primary function of Osorb?

• To increase water hardness

• To absorb oil and contaminants from water

• To detect explosive vapors

• To enhance the taste of water

What are the basic components needed to create Osorb?

• Sand, salt, and a binding agent

• Metal particles, water, and heat

• Glass molecules, water, and a catalyst

• Plastic, oil, and a solvent

Which industries could benefit from using Osorb for water remediation?

• Food and beverage

• Textile and fashion

• Agriculture and oil drilling

• Automobile manufacturing

What challenge does Osorb help address in society?

• Increasing agricultural yield

• Managing water containing hydrocarbons

• Improving electronic device efficiency

• Reducing air pollution