Rizkika Salsabila’s scientific contributions

This research investigates the influence of microwave irradiation on the silanol content and moisture adsorption capacity of silica gel prepared from clear glass waste. Employing a green and efficient microwave-assisted synthesis method, we demonstrate rapid formation of silica gel with enhanced properties. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis confirms the presence of silanol (Si-OH) groups on the synthesized gel, with a focus on the characteristic peak at 956.44 cm⁻¹ indicating their abundance. Notably, the peak area of this peak significantly increases with increasing irradiation time (5 to 15 minutes). This translates to a parallel increase in moisture adsorption capacity, rising from 56% to 82%. The enhanced silanol content suggests the potential of microwave-derived silica gel as a high-performance desiccant, as these groups directly contribute to moisture binding. Our findings highlight the promising potential of waste glass valorization via microwave synthesis for developing sustainable and effective moisture adsorbents.

Limbah kaca bening merupakan pecahan kaca yang mengandung silika dalam jumlah yang banyak, sehingga kaca berpotensi untuk diekstraksi silika untuk selanjutnya digunakan untuk pembuatan silica gel. Silika telah berhasil diekstrak dari limbah kaca bening dengan kandungan silika 73%. Silika gel juga berhasil disintesis dengan bantuan microwave yang ditunjukkan oleh munculnya gugus fungsi Si-OH dan Si-O-Si. Silika gel yang diperoleh pada pemanasan dengan microwave selama 20 menit dan daya 400 W adalah 25 g setiap 50 g limbah kaca yang digunakan.