What Is an Oil Sheet?
An oil sheet is a sheet used to absorb excess oil generated in homes and factories. There are many small gaps in the sheet, and oil can be absorbed by getting into these gaps.
As the name suggests, the main purpose is to absorb oil, but some products can also absorb moisture at the same time.
Some are made of natural fibers, while others are made of chemical fibers.
In addition to the name “oil sheet,” they are also sold under the names “oil absorbent” and “oil catcher.”
Uses of Oil Sheets
Oil sheets are used in industrial and food applications.
- Industry
The most common use of oil sheets is in the automotive industry. In addition to gasoline, which is used to power the car, oil is stored in the car to lubricate the parts. Engine oil deteriorates and needs to be changed regularly.
Because of the volume of waste oil, it is difficult to clean up afterward if it leaks onto the floor or other surfaces. Therefore, oil sheets are used to absorb the oil and prevent it from leaking outside. - Foods
This is used for prepared foods in supermarkets, especially deep-fried foods. If fried food is left unattended after frying, the oil from the food itself will seep through, weakening the crispiness of the food. Placing a sheet under fried food absorbs the oil and keeps it crispy.
Principle of Oil Sheets
Oil sheets have fine gaps through which oil can penetrate. There are two main types of oil sheet materials: cotton and polypropylene (PP) resin.
- Cotton
Cotton is a natural fiber and is composed primarily of a substance called cellulose. The cellulose has hydrophilic groups on its surface, making it highly effective in absorbing water. Therefore, it is used for applications that require the absorption of a certain amount of water as well as oil. Since cellulose by itself does not absorb oil well, it is sometimes processed. - PP Resin
PP resin is a synthetic fiber that is very compatible with oil. Due to its properties, it is used when oil is the main absorbent. PP resins are hydrocarbons, which are compounds formed from carbon and hydrogen. The higher the number of carbons, the more compatible it is with oil, and PP resins are compatible with oil because they have many carbons. Hydrocarbons are lipophilic, but if they have hydrophilic groups on their surface, their compatibility with oil may be reduced. PP resin has no hydrophilic groups at all, so it is very effective at absorbing oil.