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Surface-Engineered Melamine Sponges with Stearic Acid and ZnFe₂O₄@PANI Core–Shell Nanocomposites for Efficient Oil–Water Separation
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DOI：10.1016/j.surfin.2026.109511.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
To address the escalating environmental threats posed by industrial oil spills, this study introduces a robust surface engineering strategy for developing advanced, multifunctional melamine sponges. The core innovation lies in the hierarchical and sequential integration of stearic acid (SA), ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles, and a ZnFe2O4@PANI core-shell nanocomposite. This rational design was specifically tailored to overcome the limitations of traditional sorbents by creating a synergistic interfacial transition between the modifier layers. Through this systematic modification, the sponge's intrinsic superhydrophilicity (WCA≈ 0°) was converted into a stable, near-superhydrophobic state (WCA≈ 140°) while achieving total superoleophilicity (OCA≈ 0°). The stepwise inclusion of SA, ZnFe2O4, and PANI contributed uniquely to the final architecture providing chemical low-energy surfaces, micro-textured roughness, and nano-scale stability, respectively. BET analysis further corroborated these findings, showing a high specific surface area of 57 m2/g, which is instrumental in the sponge’s superior oil affinity and trapping capability. Experimental evaluations revealed an impressive initial crude oil adsorption capacity of approximately 24–25 g/g. Beyond high absorption, the modified sponge demonstrated significant mechanical robustness and reusability, maintaining a sustainable performance over multiple adsorption-desorption cycles. The simplicity of the dip-coating fabrication process, coupled with the use of fluorine-free and cost-effective precursors, underscores the industrial scalability of this platform. This research not only provides an efficient solution for large-scale oil spill remediation but also establishes a modular design principle for future environmental wastewater treatment technologies.
Keywords:
melamine sponge
oil-water separation
stearic acid
ZnFe2O4@PANI nanocomposite
surface engineering
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