Fabrication of Superhydrophobic Polycaprolactone Foam via Phase Separation and Silica Modification for Oil-Water Separation

Rising oil spills from contemporary industrial activities pose threats to local ecosystems. This study presents a novel approach, fabricating superhydrophobic polycaprolactone (PCL) 3D porous foam for oil-water separation using thermally induced nonsolvent-induced phase separation (TINIPS) and silica modification, achieving an impressive water contact angle of 151.56 degrees. PCL foam exhibits remarkable versatility, proving effective in oil absorption on water surfaces and underwater, with an adsorption capacity reaching 9.32 times its weight. Additionally, film-like PCL foam emerges as a valuable tool for oil-water separation through filtration, maintaining a flux of 13.63 m3 m-2 h-1 even after 10 cycles. This research advances superhydrophobic materials, demonstrating practical applications in mitigating environmental challenges posed by oil spills. This study introduces an innovative approach, fabricating superhydrophobic foam using thermally induced nonsolvent-induced phase separation and silica modification. The foam exhibits versatility, effectively absorbing oil on water surfaces and underwater. Additionally, film-like polycaprolactone foam serves as a valuable tool for oil-water separation through filtration, maintaining flux post-cycles. image