Durable Co(OH)2/stearic acid-based superhydrophobic/superoleophilic nanocellulose membrane for highly efficient oil/water separation and simultaneous removal of soluble dye

The discharge of industrial oily wastewater is threats to the environment. A long-lasting Co(OH)2/stearic acid (STA)-based superhydrophobic/superoleophilic nanocellulose-based membrane (SSNM) for extremely effective oil/water and simultaneous removal of soluble dye was created to offer solutions to this problem. The mechanical durability of the prepared Co(OH)2/STA-based SSNMs was reinforced by depositing Co(OH)2 and STA on the cellulose fibers. The Co(OH)2/STA-based SSNM shows a high water contact angle of 164 ± 2° and an oil contact angle of ∼0°, exhibiting excellent superhydrophobicity and superoleophilicity. With good usage stability, high separation efficiencies (>94.0%) and high separation fluxes (>130 L·m−2·h−1) were achieved for four oils. The separation flux and efficiency of N-hexane did not change obviously after repeated separation. Furthermore, it exhibited reliable photocatalytic ability, which contributed to the reduction of organic contamination. As a result, Co(OH)2/STA-based SSNM shows strong potential for practical applications such as oil/water separation and photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. [Display omitted] •We have effectively improved the hydrophobicity of nanocellulose membrane.•This superhydrophobic membrane possesses excellent superhydrophobicity and physicochemical durability.•Efficient membrane separation for dye wastewater and oil/water mixture.•Mussel-inspired membrane is utilized for industrial effluent removal.