A novel superhydrophilic-underwater superoleophobic Cu2S coated copper mesh for efficient oil-water separation

A novel Cu2S coated copper mesh with unique curled plate-like structure was prepared via a simple and cost-effective electrochemical anodization approach. The as-prepared coated mesh shows superhydrophilicity and underwater superoleophobicity and low adhesion property to oil. The mesh was used to separate various oil-water mixtures with high efficiency, which allowed water to pass through while it repelled oil completely. In addition, the coated mesh still maintained high separation efficiency above 97% after repeated 50 separation times for hexane/water mixture. These suggest that the coated mesh possesses superhydrophilic and underwater superoleophobic properties and stable oil-water separation performance. Therefore, the Cu2S coated copper mesh can be a novel ideal candidate material for oil-water separation. •A novel superhydrophilic-underwater superoleophobic Cu2S coated copper mesh was prepared via an anodization approach.•The coated mesh could be used to separate various oil-water mixtures with high efficiency.•The mesh maintained separation efficiency above 97% after repeated 50 separation times for hexane/water mixture.