Fabric-based composite membrane for simultaneous emulsion separation and self-powered real-time monitoring

Membrane separation technology is widely used in emulsion separation due to its high efficiency, energy saving, and environmental protection. However, Membrane contamination issues are not identified on time, which affects separation efficiency and the overall process. Real-time monitoring of the membrane separation process is essential for timely detection of membrane performance degradation and cost savings. In this study, the innovative combination of hydrovoltaic electricity generators (HEGs) and membrane separation technology is employed to design a fabric-based bilayer membrane for efficient separation and real-time intelligent monitoring of emulsions. Effective separation in the perpendicular direction and in-time monitoring in the horizontal direction are achieved using a HEG material (carbon black modified cotton fabric, CNC) and a deposition composite layer (MP) strategy. Specifically, the MP layer with pore screening and super-wettability achieves a separation efficiency of over 99 % after 10 cycles for oil-in-water emulsions. Real-time monitoring of the separation process is accomplished through voltage variations induced by water and solute transport across membranes (0.24 V for water, 0.30 V for emulsion). This study provides an innovative idea for the intelligent monitoring of oil-water separation.