Dual-functional superhydrophilic/underwater superoleophobic 2D Ti3C2TX MXene-PAN membrane for efficient oil-water separation and adsorption of organic dyes in wastewater

Abstract

The incorporation of two-dimensional Ti₃C₂T_X MXene nanoflakes into polymeric membranes has piqued researchers' enthusiasm as a way to improve the effectiveness of oil–water separation membranes. Herein, we developed a simple approach for fabricating two-dimensional Ti₃C₂T_X MXene nanoflakes on a nanofibrous PAN membrane via vacuum filtration. The superhydrophilic/underwater superoleophobic MXene-PAN membrane showed remarkable separation performance for a diverse range of oil–water emulsions owing to its intrinsic hydrophilicity, low oil droplet adherence and regular stacking of 2D Ti₃C₂T_X MXene nanosheets. The ultralow oil adhesion contributed to anti-oil fouling properties and outstanding recyclability, with a flux recovery ratio of about 80%. Moreover, the membrane possessed remarkable chemical stability when exposed to corrosive environmental conditions such as acid, alkali, salty and hot water medium and could also effectively separate emulsions in hostile environments. Furthermore, the MXene-PAN membrane could effectively adsorb the organic contaminants present in the oily effluent. The exceptional dual functionality of the MXene-PAN membrane, which combines outstanding separation performance and organic dye adsorption, opens up new prospects for treating oily wastewater.