Developing superhydrophobic/superoleophilic polyurethane sponge based on Fe3O4 particles for oil - water separation

Recently, the issue of oil and organic spills, driven by a growing human population, has become a significant concern globally, including in Vietnam. Researchers are increasingly focused on developing materials that can selectively absorb oils and organic solvents while repelling water. This project aimed to develop an oil-absorbing material by integrating stearic acid-modified Fe3O4 or Fe3O4 particles into a polyurethane (PU) foam base. The results demonstrated that the modified PU sponge exhibited superhydrophobic properties, with a water contact angle exceeding 150°, and superoleophilic characteristics, with an oil contact angle close to zero. With excellent oil selectivity, the modified PU sponge achieved diesel oil absorption capacity ranging from 44 to 53 times its weight, depending on the particle loading concentration.