Bionic multifunctional fibrous materials for efficient oil/water separation

Abstract Special wettability fibrous materials have received a lot of attention because of their good connectivity, mechanical flexibility, large specific surface area, and ease of shape manipulation. Their outstanding performance paves the way toward efficient oil/water separation in a variety of environments and for separation requirements. This paper discusses the distinct advantages, challenges, and future research directions of various substrates for fibrous materials, such as nonwoven natural biomass fibers, fabrics, electrospinning fibers, metallic fibers, and inorganic nonmetallic fibers. The special wettability fibrous filter materials and fibrous adsorbents are summarized based on the different separation methods. The principles of preparation of various special wettabilities are introduced, and the unique advantages of fibrous adsorbents are emphasized. The preparation strategy of fibrous filter materials is discussed, as well as some representative work and research progress. The benefits, drawbacks, and research directions in terms of various materials are examined. This article emphasizes the pollution resistance of fibrous filter materials and the elasticity of fibrous adsorbents. Finally, the prospects in terms of the problems, challenges, and future development of special wettability fibrous materials used in oil/water separation are discussed.