Activation of Cellulose Assisted by CO₂ for the Preparation of a Superhydrophobic Nanocoating

There is increasing demand for superhydrophobic materials, which can be used for separating oil and water efficiently. To avoid secondary pollution, it is desirable to prepare such materials with green technology. Here, we present an environmentally benign method for fabricating superhydrophobic materials by using organic base based solvents in which cellulose can be dissolved and activated. The dissolved cellulose could be chemically modified with a silanization reagent, and the solvent could be recycled after CO₂ was removed. The obtained cellulose nanocoating exhibited excellent hydrophobic effects. By spraying it on filter paper (water contact angle (WCA)=165°) for oil and water separation, the separation efficiency of more than 95 % was achieved; ultrasonication of an ordinary sponge in its dispersion (WCA=163°), meant it could be used as an oil absorber. It can also absorb a certain amount of bisphenol A (BPA), with the concentration decreasing by 66 % from the original concentration (0.1 mm). Besides the high separation efficiency, it is resistant to a wide range of pH solutions, which means that it could be used in harsh environments. More importantly, the process is cost-effective, the solvent can be recycled, and the whole process is green. Thus, the activation method provides a green route for the preparation of other cellulose-based materials.