A highly efficient and reusable PVDF/ZnAl(DS)LDH composite as sorbent for the separation of oil and organics from water

A superhydrophobic and oleophilic material was created by incorporating PVDF with ZnAl(DS)LDH nanomaterial using a straightforward solid-liquid phase separation technique. This material was effectively used to separate oil from oil-water mixtures containing a variety of oils and organic solvents. The PVDF/ZnAl(DS)LDH absorbent selectively allowed oil to diffuse through it, repelling water completely. The absorption capacity of the hybrid foam for engine oil and paraffin oil was determined to be 19.11 g/g and 18.6 g/g respectively. The absorbed oil could be removed by mechanically squeezing the foam for reuse. PVDF/ZnAl(DS)LDH foam offers a potential solution for eliminating water contaminants due to its cost-effectiveness and easy applicability, thereby reducing the threat to the marine ecosystem. The hybrid foam demonstrated good uptake capacities for various oils and organic solvents and proved recyclable for the remediation of oily wastewater and effective separation of water-oil mixtures.