Polyelectrolyte-fluorosurfactant complex-based meshes with superhydrophilicity and superoleophobicity for oil/water separation

• We fabricate the PFC-based mesh with superhydrophilicity and superoleophobicity.
• Water can pass through the mesh by gravity force while oils can be retained.
• Various oil/water mixtures can be separated using the prepared mesh.
• The oil/water separation function of the mesh keeps the long-term stability.

To develop novel interface materials for oil/water separation, we describe a simple method to fabricate polyelectrolyte-fluorosurfactant complex-based meshes with superhydrophilicity and superoleophobicity both in air and underwater. The micro/nano-textured surface morphology, along with the interaction of hydrophilic groups and fluorinated alkyl chains, results in simultaneous superhydrophilicity and superoleophobicity. A water droplet can spread over the mesh surface with the contact angle of 0°, while a hexadecane droplet can roll off the mesh easily both in air and underwater. During oil/water separation process, water passed quickly through the mesh by the driving force of gravity and oils were retained above the mesh. As a result, various oil/water mixtures were separated using the mesh with the efficiency above 99.0%. Moreover, the performance stability of the prepared mesh was investigated using air plasma and corrosive aqueous solutions. After treatment, the mesh can keep the superhydrophilicity, superoleophobicity, and high oil/water separation efficiency. Therefore, this superhydrophilic and superoleophobic mesh would be a good candidate for oil/water separation to meet emerging needs in practical applications.

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