Cellulose nanocrystal-assisted microphase separation for constructing multi-scale electrospun membrane toward W/O
Qingxiang Wang1, Haiying Yang2, Jing Cheng1
1Key Laboratory of Bio-based Material Science and Technology (Ministry of Education), Northeast Forestry University, 26 Hexing Road, Harbin 150040, China.
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
|August 25, 2025
Summary
This study introduces a novel superhydrophobic membrane for efficient water-in-oil emulsion separation. The hierarchical structure enhances mechanical properties and separation performance in wastewater treatment.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Environmental Engineering
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Efficient separation of water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions is critical for wastewater treatment.
- Conventional electrospun membranes face challenges like poor mechanical strength, large pores, and instability.
- Developing robust and efficient membranes is essential for sustainable water management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a hierarchical superhydrophobic membrane using coaxial electrospinning for effective W/O emulsion separation.
- To investigate the synergistic effects of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) on membrane structure and performance.
- To provide a sustainable and mechanically stable solution for wastewater treatment.
Main Methods:
- Coaxial electrospinning of a Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/CNC core with a PDMS shell.
- Utilizing nonsolvent-induced phase separation to create hierarchical surface structures.
- Characterizing membrane properties including water contact angle, pore size, and flux.
- Evaluating separation efficiency and reusability for W/O emulsions.
Main Results:
- The fabricated membrane exhibited a hierarchical superhydrophobic surface with spindle- and nanosphere-like structures.
- The membrane achieved a high water contact angle of 158° and an average pore size of 1.93 μm.
- A high flux of 2890 L m⁻² h⁻¹ and over 94% separation efficiency were maintained over 20 cycles.
- The synergistic effects of CNC and PDMS resulted in enhanced mechanical properties and structural stability.
Conclusions:
- The coaxial electrospinning strategy successfully created a hierarchical superhydrophobic membrane with superior W/O emulsion separation capabilities.
- The combined use of CNC and PDMS offers a sustainable approach to improve membrane performance and durability.
- This advanced membrane technology holds significant promise for efficient wastewater treatment applications.
