A single step approach of fabricating superhydrophobic PET fabric by using low pressure plasma for oil-water separation

Superhydrophobic surfaces play a significant role in functional materials which are the most important part of surface and interface science. Superhydrophobic materials for oil/water separation have become a worldwide research topic due to the industrial waste and oil leak causing environmental pollution. A single step, solvent free method to fabricate superhydrophobic surface seems to be challenging. The current study focuses on a new and advancement methodology to fabricate fluorine and silane free smart oil-recovery materials without adverse environmental consequences. A superhydrophobic PET fabric is fabricated by DC glow discharge oxygen plasma treatment which is a simple and quick method. The incorporation of functional groups to the PET fabric promoted the superhydrophobic nature of the fabric with the water contact angle of 163°. The as prepared fabric possess excellent repellency to water, milk, coffee and can be applied as an effective material for oil/water separation, protective garments, diaper pads and other medical and health supplies.