Electrophoretic deposition of graphene oxide on laser-ablated copper mesh for enhanced oil/water separation

Abstract

The fabrication of bionic surfaces resembling hydrophobic plants through micro manufacturing, which creates abundant multi-level micro/nanostructures and elemental variations, has been widely employed to change the surface wettability of metallic materials. Based on the mechanisms for selective permeation of various liquids, it could achieve the function of oil/water separation. Herein, a separation copper membrane fabricated with pulsed laser ablation and modified with graphene oxide (GO) deposition showed a synergetic effect on tunable surface wettability. Micro/nanostructures were generated on the copper substrate membrane through concentric circular scanning, which was followed by hole drilling. Afterwards, charged GO nanosheets were deposited via electrophoresis. The spacing of circular lines, the diameter of the holes and the abundant high-surface-energy hydrophilic oxygen contained in deposited GO amounts could be regulated in the laser processing and deposition, resulting in oleophobicity and hydrophilicity at the same time. The highest contact angle of oil in water of the prepared mesh could reach above 165° with a hole size of 200 μm and a circular line spacing of 100 μm after the laser processing. Water flux and oil-holding capacity, which represent the separation capability of the mesh, were also evaluated. The as-prepared separation mesh also showed great stability under harsh environments.