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Flexible Hierarchical TiO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 Composite Membrane with High Separation Efficiency for Surfactant‐Stabilized Oil‐Water Emulsions
Author(s) -
Tan Benny Yong Liang,
Juay Jermyn,
Liu Zhaoyang,
Sun Darren
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
chemistry – an asian journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.18
H-Index - 106
eISSN - 1861-471X
pISSN - 1861-4728
DOI - 10.1002/asia.201501203
Subject(s) - pulmonary surfactant , chemical engineering , composite number , materials science , membrane , emulsion , fouling , membrane fouling , composite material , chemistry , engineering , biochemistry
Globally, efficient oil‐water separation for surfactant‐stabilized oil‐water emulsions has been in urgent demand. The current options available for separation are neither sustainable nor resistant to fouling. Herein, we introduce a hierarchically nanostructured TiO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 composite membrane, which is capable of separating surfactant‐stabilized oil‐water emulsions with high separation efficiency. The high oil rejection rate is contributed by the acquisition of an interconnected delicate network and underwater superoleophobic interface. Meanwhile, its self‐cleaning function promote the facile recovery of the contaminated membrane. Furthermore, the mechanical flexible characteristic of the TiO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 composite membrane widens its applicability in industrial employment. Thanks to these properties, this novel membrane can be considered as a practical option for treating surfactant‐stabilized oil‐water emulsions.