Robust and non-fluorinated superhydrophobic meshes with controllable pore size for high-efficiency water-in-oil emulsion separation

Advanced materials for separating the oil-water emulsions are highly desired for practical applications. Herein, robust superhydrophobic meshes with controllable pore size were prepared by electrodeposition and post-modification process. The influences of the textured roughness and hydrophobic modification on the surface wettability were explored. The superhydrophobic meshes exhibited superior stability against mechanical damages and various harsh conditions. By virtue of their superhydrophobicity and superoleophilicity, the mesh was successfully applied for the rapid and efficient separation of water-in-oil emulsions solely by gravity. This developed strategy for constructing robust superwetting membranes display huge application potential for wastewater treatment and oil purification.