Bioinspired multi-functional modified PVDF membrane for efficient oil-water separation

The pervasive issue of oily wastewater presents a critical environmental challenge, necessitating the development of advanced membranes that offer high purification efficiency, durability, and versatility. In this study, we introduce a novel bioinspired multifunctional membrane, synthesized by modifying polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) with fibrous two-dimensional carbides and nitrides (MXene) and silica (SiO 2 ) nanoparticles, drawing inspiration from the complex structure of coral stones. The membrane was fabricated using the phase inversion technique, producing a robust material that achieves over 99 % separation efficiency for oil–water mixtures. Beyond oil–water separation, the membrane exhibited exceptional performance in removing various contaminants from complex oily wastewater, including heavy metals, dyes, and phenol. Remarkably, the membrane maintained its high purification efficiency even after 5 consecutive cycles of oil–water separation and pollutant adsorption. This bioinspired multifunctional modified PVDF (MMP) membrane represents a major advancement in wastewater treatment technology, with significant potential for widespread application in the purification of complex oily wastewater.