Ultrastable superhydrophobic melamine sponge via a one-step aqueous solution-based approach for oil/water separation

In this study, an eco-friendly aqueous solution-dipping method was developed for the synthesis of an ultrastable superhydrophobic melamine sponge (MS). The MS exhibits not only a high oil adsorption capacity of 46.3–149.5 times of its own weight, but also a good reusability with a slight decrease in adsorption capacity after 20 absorption-desorption cycles. Moreover, the continuous separation of immiscible oils/organic solvents and water with vacuum assistance is also realized. Besides, the material also features with exceptional physicochemical stability and fire-retardant performance, enabling its potential applications in extreme environments (high temperature, strong wind and waves, strong acids and alkalis, UV radiation, etc.). The as-established synthesis pathway has its chance in simplifying the industrial fabrication processes of composited functional sponges.