Facile synthesis of Ni(OH)₂ thin films as the catalytic layer for the growth of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on stainless steel mesh as the superhydrophobic and superoleophilic membrane for continuous oil–water separation

In this study, a facile chemical bath deposition was employed to deposit nickel hydroxide (Ni(OH) 2 ) thin films onto the networks of stainless steel (SS) mesh as the catalytic layer for growing the vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) via thermal chemical vapor deposition. The VACNTs/SS mesh has a water contact angle as high as 161° and an almost unmeasurable oil contact angle. The superhydrophobic and superoleophilic filtering membrane made by VACNTs/SS mesh demonstrated its excellent selectivity for continuous oil–water separation. This innovative filtering membrane not only enhances the efficiency of oil–water separation processes but also holds promise for various applications in environmental remediation and industrial wastewater treatment. Its unique properties enable it to selectively filter out harmful substances while allowing clean water to pass through, making it a valuable asset in efforts to combat pollution.