Efficient preparation of macroporous poly(methyl methacrylate) materials from high internal phase emulsion templates

3D printing of reactive macroporous polymers via thiol-ene chemistry and polymerization-induced phase separation

Using thiol-ene chemistry, polymerization-induced phase separation, and DLP 3D printing, we present a method for manufacturing reactive macroporous 3D structures. This approach enables the fabrication of structures with tunable physicochemical properties and compressibility. Moreover, it facilitates post-functionalization through thiol-Michael addition reactions, thereby expanding performance and application potential.

A compressible porous superhydrophobic material constructed by a multi-template high internal phase emulsion method for oil-water separation

Superhydrophobic porous materials exhibit remarkable stability and exceptional efficacy in combating marine oil spills and containing oily water discharges. This work employed the multi-template high internal phase emulsion method to fabricate a multi-template porous superhydrophobic foam (MTPSF). The materials were characterized through SEM, IR spectroscopy, contact angle measurement, and an electronic universal testing machine. Moreover, the materials' oil-water separation capability, reusability, and compressibility were thoroughly evaluated. The obtained results demonstrate that the material displays a water contact angle of 143° and an oil contact angle of approximately 0°, thus exhibiting superhydrophobic and superoleophilic properties. Consequently, it effectively facilitates the separation of oil slicks and heavy oil underwater. Furthermore, the MTPSF conforms to the second kinetic and Webber-Morris models concerning the oil absorption process. MTPSF exhibits an outstanding oil absorption capacity, ranging from 39.40 to 102.32 g g-1, while showcasing reliable reusability, high recovery efficiency, and excellent compressibility of up to 55%. The above exceptional attributes render the MTPSF highly suitable for oil-water separation applications.