The efficient separation of surfactant-stabilized oil–water emulsions with a flexible and superhydrophilic graphene–TiO2 composite membrane

Abstract

It is a worldwide challenge to efficiently separate surfactant-stabilized oil–water emulsions. The existing separation membranes are prone to fouling or are incapable of proper separation. This study is the first to realize the efficient separation of surfactant-stabilized oil–water emulsions via the delicate design and fabrication of a hierarchically nanostructured graphene–TiO2 membrane. During the oil–water separation process, this membrane demonstrates the combined advantages of high oil rejection rate and ultralow membrane fouling because of its interconnected three-dimensional nanoscale network, underwater superoleophobic interface, and self-cleaning function. Furthermore, the mechanical flexibility of this membrane endows it with great potential for wide industrial applications.