In 10 May 2010, some parts of the ocean in Mexico were affected by oil spill. People collect hair to soak the oil in the ocean as hair is said to be oleophilic. Hair collected were put in naylans, which soaks up the thick oil.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwQOD_Ir2vQ

Oleophilic means that  it has a strong affinity for  oils but not water.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/8672124.stm

Aim: To investigate the effectiveness of hair in oil absorption

Hypothesis: A significant amount of oil can be absorbed by the hair

• What are the properties of hair?• ( eg. density, absorption capacity, ability to bio- degrade )

• What is a suitable “binder” to keep the hair afloat on the surface of the ocean?

• What is the optimum amount of hair are needed to absorb the most amount of oil?

Possible Products: Oil absorbing floating device to help clear up oil spills in the middle of the sea (eg. Hair mat / blanket/ boat)