Preparation of novel magnetic hydrophobic and lipophilic polyurethane sponge for effective separation of oil/water mixtures

Using a simple dipping method, a novel the magnetically driven hydrophobic polyurethane sponge (MHPS) was synthesized in this work. The isodecyl alcohol with longer carbon chain is grafted onto the sponge surface through substitution reaction and condensation reaction, and Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles are adhered to the sponge to give it magnetism and make it easy to collect. MHPS were characterized by Fourier transformed infrared, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrometers. The maximum adsorption capacity for various oils/organic solvents was 24–50 times its own weight. MHPS shows excellent reusability after ten absorption–extrusion-heating cycles. Moreover, it can selectively absorb and continuously remove oil in a wide range of water due to the combination of its high porosity, hydrophobicity and lipophilicity. The magnetism of MHPS makes it easy to collect with magnets. It is believed that MHPS has potential application prospects in oil purification and oil spill removal industry wastewater.