Mussel-inspired chemistry and Stöber method for highly stabilized water-in-oil emulsions separation

Abstract

A novel superhydrophobic–superoleophilic membrane for the separation of oil/water emulsions has been developed by combining mussel-inspired chemistry and Stöber method. The membrane can be applied to various and highly stabilized water-in-oil emulsions. Separation process is achieved by one step under gravity with high efficiency. Moreover, the membrane is thermally stable, easily stored, and producible in large scale.