Femtosecond laser induced robust periodic nanoripple structured mesh for highly efficient oil–water separation

Abstract

Marine oil spills have induced severe water pollution and threatened sea ecosystems, which also result in a loss of energy resources. To deal with this problem, much work has been done for using superhydrophobic or superhydrophilic mesh for oil-water separation. Nevertheless, there are still great challenges in the rapid fabrication of extremely durable mesh with superwetting properties, particularly considering the highly efficient oil-water separation. In this study, we present a simple, efficient method to fabricate superhydrophilic and underwater superoleophobic stainless steel mesh surfaces with one-step femtosecond laser induced periodic nanoripple structures. The as-prepared mesh shows high separation efficiency, which is higher than 99% for various oil-water mixtures. More importantly, the wettability and the separation efficiency of the fabricated mesh show no obvious change after the abrasion tests and corrosion tests, indicating that the as-prepared samples possess robust stability. This study provides an efficient route for constructing durable and highly efficient separation mesh, which can be applied in the cleanup of large-scale oil spills in the near future.

Micro‐/Nanostructured Interface for Liquid Manipulation and Its Applications

“…Based on the principles mentioned above, novel materials were invented and fabricated as proof‐of‐concept. Oil–water separators are generally porous meshes, foams and sponges made from a wide range of materials, including metal, polymers, ceramics, fabrics, cellulose‐based derivatives, particles, and novel nanomaterials . Recently, Wang et al reported a highly compressible wood sponge with spring‐like lamellar structure (Figure b–d), which was fabricated by sequential chemical treatment, freeze drying and chemical vapor deposition of natural balsa wood.…”

Reduced graphene oxide-coated cotton as an efficient absorbent in oil-water separation

“…In this regards, metal oxide, inorganic clay, magnetic materials, polymer microfiber bundles, polymer-based superhydrophobic materials, and sponge-like aerogels have been explored for oil-water separation because of its high surface area, coupled with excellent mechanochemical stability, and hydrophobicity [4,[9][10][11][12][13]. In addition, metal meshes have also been reported explored for oil-water separation but have limitations of low separation efficiency and poor cyclability [14,15]. However, the high cost of the chemicals required for the synthesis of above materials and associated environmental and ecological concerns restrict their widespread use [16,17].…”

Femtosecond Laser Micro/Nano-manufacturing: Theories, Measurements, Methods, and Applications

“…38 and 39 [104,105]. Duan et al [106] fabricated stainless-steel Fig. 32 a Rose pattern formed on surface of graphene after femtosecond laser fabricating; b roses in nature [89] Fig.…”