Durable CNTs Reinforced Porous Electrospun Superhydrophobic Membrane for Efficient Gravity Driven Oil/Water Separation

Developing a durable and efficient oil/water separation membrane for purification of the oily water is crucial for sustainable aquatic ecosystems and public health. Herein, a superhydrophobic and superoleophilic nanofibrous membrane was successfully developed with an improved mechanical strength via a facile method of blendelectrospun. By introducing an ultralow amounts of carbon nanotubes (CNTs, 0.15 wt%, 2.55 mg/g), the obtained composite membrane exhibited a satisfactory hydrophobic (water contact angle, WCA = 152 degrees) and oleophilic nature (oil contact angle, OCA similar to 0 degrees, oil permeation time = 91.63 ms). The as-prepared composite membrane exhibited a strong acid/alkali resistance (pH = 1-14), high thermal stability (160 degrees C), and good mechanical stability; it had a high oil-water separation flux (max = 9270 L m(-2) h(-1)) and a separation efficiency of > 99% under the driving of gravity, indicating a significant applicability for energy-saving filtration. The integration of high performance, low cost, and a simple solution-based fabrication process makes the as-prepared membranes have a great potential for future applications.

Automated summary

A superhydrophobic and superoleophilic nanofibrous membrane was developed, showing excellent hydrophobic and oleophilic properties, as well as acid/alkali resistance, high thermal stability, and good mechanical stability. It has a high oil-water separation flux and efficiency, indicating significant applicability for energy-saving filtration.