Hierarchical 0D CuO Wrapped by Petal-like 2D ZnO: A Strategic Approach of Superhydrophobic Melamine Sponge toward Wastewater Treatment

Abstract

In addressing the pressing environmental challenges posed by frequent oil spills, this work presents a novel approach of synthesizing a superhydrophobic three-dimensional (3D) porous melamine sponge (MS). CuO and ZnO nanoparticles were grown on the MS via a hydrothermal method to create MS/CuO/ZnO with multiscale hierarchical nanostructures. The resulting material exhibited a stable water contact angle of 155°through various tests. MS/ CuO/ZnO demonstrated exceptional oil absorption capacities (40−145 g/g and 0.83−0.99 mL.cm −3 ), surpassing 98% efficiency in oil separation, and retained reusability for 10 cycles. Impressively, the sponge achieved successful separation of oil/water emulsions with a permeation flux of 14870 L m −2 h −1 . The composite sponge, distinguished by its high photodegradation ability, can degrade both waterand oil-targeted pollutants under visible light irradiation from light-emitting diode (LED). With its remarkable attributes including superior oil absorption, excellent oil/water separation, mechanical resistance, and excellent photocatalytic ability, it exhibits considerable potential for applications in both wastewater treatment and large-scale marine oil spill response. The easily prepared MS/CuO/ZnO emerges as a versatile solution capable of addressing pressing challenges and marking a significant leap toward sustainable and impactful environmental remediation.

Buoyancy-Assisted Fabrication of Liquid Diode: Janus Nanofibrous Membrane for Efficient Wastewater Treatment

“…Over the past few decades, there have been frequent occurrences of oil spills during oil exploration, refining, and transportation. , Additionally, industries such as petroleum, chemicals, metal processing, machinery manufacturing, and food processing, as well as daily activities, contribute to the generation of vast volumes of oily wastewater. − This wastewater poses a significant environmental threat, with numerous kinds of adverse impacts on air, soil, vegetation, and surface and underground water. , It includes variety of toxins, including carcinogenic compounds, ecotoxicants, and other hazardous materials, posing risks to aquatic ecosystems, human health, and economic well-being, especially when discharged into water bodies. ,,, For instance, oil slicks on the sea’s surface create a barrier that inhibits water reoxygenation, negatively affecting marine plankton growth and disrupting the ocean’s ecological balance. , Hence, there is an urgent need to develop an effective and environmentally friendly method for treating this complex wastewater.…”