Three-dimensional hierarchical nanostructured porous epoxidized natural rubber latex/poly(vinyl alcohol) material for oil/water separation

摘要

In the past few decades, many interesting biomaterials with unforeseen properties have attracted considerable attention due to its unique micro-nano structure. In this work, a bio-inspired design was proposed to develop the epoxidized natural rubber latex (ENRL)@polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) three-dimensional (3D) porous material. Herein, the obtained epoxidized natural rubber/polyvinyl alcohol (ENR@PVA) exhibits a "grapevine-grape" like networks with robust PVA as "grapevine" and soft latex particles as "grape". Owing to the synergistic effect of those hierarchical micro-nano structures and abundant hydrophilic oxygen-containing groups, the ENR@PVA exhibits superhydrophilic and underwater superoleophobic functionality. Accordingly, benefiting from the superwettability features, the ENR@PVA shows superior separation (oil rejections are all above 99.5) and anti-fouling performances. More importantly, the integration of excellent flexibility and mechanical robustness guarantees a superior mechanical stability for sustainable reusability and oil recovery in the practical applications. Therefore, the research findings might promote the development of the 3D porous material and its future application for high performance oily wastewater remediation.