Efficient oil/saltwater separation using a highly permeable and fouling-resistant all-inorganic nanocomposite membrane.

ABSTRACT: Although it is still a great challenge, developing oil-/water-separating membranes that combine the advantages of high separation efficiency, salty environments tolerance, and fouling resistance are highly demanded for marine oil spill cleanups and oil-/gas-produced water treatment. Here, we report a new type of all-inorganic nanostructured membrane, which is composed of titanate nanofibers and SiO2 particulate gel for efficient and stable oil/saltwater separation. The nanoporous and interconnected network structure constructed with titanate nanofibers is the key to ensure the high separation efficiency and high water flux of the new membrane. The SiO2 gel is used as a binder to offer mechanical flexibility and integrity for this type of all-inorganic membrane. The new membrane displays a

SUBMITTER: Elshorafa R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7190607 | biostudies-literature | 2020 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature