Bio-inspired durable, superhydrophobic magnetic particles for oil/water separation

In the present study, superhydrophobic and superoleophilic microparticles with magnetic property were fabricated by combining the oxidation and self-polymerization of dopamine and formation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles on the surface of the polydopamine (PDA) particles, followed by modification with low surface energy material. The modified PDA/Fe3O4 particles showed high water repellency with contact angle (CA) measured at 153.7±1.6° and high oil affinity. The superhydrophobic microparticles preserved high water CA after aging test, showing excellent durability. The microparticles were employed to effectively remove oil from water in different routes. Superhydrophobic sponge was prepared by modifying with the achieved microparticles. The sponge exhibited high absorption capability of oil, with weight gains ranging from 1348% to 7268%. The results suggest this work might provide a promising candidate for oily pollutants/water separation and transportation.