A review of various dimensional superwetting materials for oil–water separation

Abstract

In recent years, the application and fabrication technologies of superwetting materials in the field of oil–water separation have become a research hotspot, aiming to address challenges in marine oil spill response and oily wastewater treatment. Simultaneously, the fabrication technologies and related applications of superwetting materials have been increasingly diversified. This paper systematically reviews the sources and hazards of oily wastewater and oil–water emulsions, several traditional oil–water separation methods, and their limitations, thereby highlighting the advantages of superwetting materials. Additionally, this paper provides an overview of the fundamental theories of wetting and conducts a microanalysis of the penetration mechanism based on Laplace pressure at the gas–liquid–solid three-phase interface. Following this, the latest advances in superwetting oil–water separation materials are elucidated, focusing on five categories: (i) superhydrophobic–superoleophilic materials; (ii) superhydrophilic–underwater superoleophobic materials; (iii) superhydrophobic–superoleophobic materials; (iv) “special” superwetting materials; and (v) smart switchable superwetting materials. This paper innovatively discusses these materials from the perspectives of two-dimensional and three-dimensional materials, deeply studying the mechanisms of oil–water separation and using data to quantify the separation efficiency. Comparative discussions are conducted on the materials from various dimensions, including different substrates, innovations in existing technologies, and fabrication methods as discussed in various articles, followed by corresponding summaries. Finally, the existing shortcomings and challenges of current superwetting materials are summarized, and prospects are proposed. We firmly believe that developing low-cost, stable, environmentally friendly, and practical large-scale superwetting oil–water separation materials will have broad application prospects and potential in the future.