title: Flexible Hierarchical TiO2/Fe2O3 Composite Membrane with High Separation Efficiency for Surfactant-Stabilized Oil-Water Emulsions.
abstract: Globally, efficient oil-water separation for surfactant-stabilized oil-water emulsions has been in urgent demand. The current options available for separation are neither sustainable nor resistant to fouling. Herein, we introduce a hierarchically nanostructured TiO2/Fe2O3 composite membrane, which is capable of separating surfactant-stabilized oil-water emulsions with high separation efficiency. The high oil rejection rate is contributed by the acquisition of an interconnected delicate network and underwater superoleophobic interface. Meanwhile, its self-cleaning function promote the facile recovery of the contaminated membrane. Furthermore, the mechanical flexible characteristic of the TiO2/Fe2O3 composite membrane widens its applicability in industrial employment. Thanks to these properties, this novel membrane can be considered as a practical option for treating surfactant-stabilized oil-water emulsions.
authors.affiliation: School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University.
authors.forename: Benny Yong Liang
authors.initials: BY
authors.lastname: Tan
authors.affiliation: School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University.
authors.forename: Jermyn
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Juay
authors.affiliation: Qatar Environmental and Energy Research Institute.
authors.forename: Zhaoyang
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Liu
authors.affiliation: School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University. ddsun@ntu.edu.sg.
authors.forename: Darren
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Sun
keywords: membranes; oil-water separation; photocatalysis; superhydrophilicity; underwater superoleophobic interface