Biomimetic 3D Prototyping of Hierarchically Porous Multilayered Membranes for Enhanced Oil-Water Filtration

This study introduces a biomimetic approach to 3D printing multilayered hierarchical porous membranes (MHMs) using Direct Ink Writing (DIW) technology. Fabricated through a fast layer-by-layer printing process with varying concentrations of pore-forming agents, the produced MHMs mimic the hierarchical pore structure and filtration capabilities of natural soil systems. As a result, the 3D-printed MHMs achieved an impressive oil rejection rate of 99.02% and demonstrated exceptional reusability, maintaining a flux recovery ratio of 99.48% even after hours of continuous filtration. Moreover, the 3D-printed MHMs exhibit superior hierarchical porous architecture and mechanical integrity compared to traditional flat sheet single-layered membranes. This study presents a significant advancement for scalable 3D printing of customized multilayer membranes with tailored porosity and high-performance filtration properties. The simplicity, versatility, and cost-effectiveness of the presented manufacturing method offer a pathway for advanced design and on-demand membrane production.