Superhydrophilic–superhydrophobic integrated system based on copper mesh for continuous and efficient oil–water separation
Zhaohe Huang, Zhenzhong Wang, Shiqiang Wang, Xiaowen Shan, Shumeng Yin, Bin Tao
Abstract
oxidation, chemical vapor deposition, and other physical and chemical modification techniques. Moreover, copper meshes possessing contrasting wetting properties were incorporated into a system combining superhydrophilicity and superhydrophobicity enabling the continuous and efficient separation of mixed oil-water liquids. The separation efficiency of both the superhydrophobic and superhydrophilic membranes surpassed 99.0% and remained above 97.0% after 15 days of continuous use, showcasing the remarkable effectiveness and durability of the integrated system design. This research presents a straightforward and cost-effective design approach for the large-scale treatment of oily wastewater in industrial settings, which is expected to have extensive applications in practical production.