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MXene/Cuttlefish-Ink Nanoparticles Incorporated Dual-Purification Sponge for Solar-Driven Oily Wastewater and Microplastic Remediation

  • 0Sanya Science and Education Innovation Park of Wuhan University of Technology, Sanya 572024, China.
Polymers +

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February 13, 2026

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February 13, 2026

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

This study introduces a novel composite sponge made from cuttlefish-ink nanoparticles (CINPs), MXene, and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). This advanced material efficiently absorbs oil and removes microplastics from water using solar energy.

Area Of Science

  • Materials Science
  • Environmental Science
  • Nanotechnology

Background

  • Increasing microplastic pollution and oily wastewater necessitate advanced, eco-friendly remediation materials.
  • Current solutions often lack recyclability, multifunctionality, or efficient pollutant removal.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To develop a novel composite polyurethane (PU) sponge for effective oil-water separation and microplastic remediation.
  • To leverage synergistic properties of cuttlefish-ink nanoparticles (CINPs), MXene, and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) for enhanced performance.

Main Methods

  • Fabrication of a composite sponge integrating CINPs, Ti3C2Tx MXene, and PDMS onto a PU base.
  • Characterization of the sponge's photothermal conversion efficiency, superhydrophobicity, and structural stability.
  • Evaluation of oil absorption capacity, oil-water separation efficiency, and microplastic adsorption performance.

Main Results

  • The CINPs@MXene/PU/PDMS sponge exhibited high photothermal conversion efficiency, reaching 84.1 °C under 1.5 Sun irradiation.
  • Demonstrated efficient crude oil absorption (24.52 g/g saturated capacity) and rapid adsorption rates.
  • Showcased remarkable adsorption capabilities for both microplastics and nanoplastics.

Conclusions

  • The developed composite sponge is a versatile and scalable platform for environmental remediation.
  • It offers a promising solution for oily wastewater treatment, solar-assisted oil recovery, and microplastic removal.
  • This material contributes to sustainable environmental protection efforts through its multifunctional capabilities.

Keywords:

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