Superwetting copper meshes based on self-organized robust CuO nanorods: efficient water purification for in situ oil removal and visible light photodegradation

Water pollution has become a prominent environmental problem and insoluble oils and soluble dyes are the primary pollution sources. Herein, a facile and environment friendly method is proposed to fabricate robust CuO nanorod-covered meshes for dual-functional water purification. The as-prepared meshes can efficiently eliminate oils in wastewater and in situ photodegrade soluble organic dyes under visible light irradiation. Such a functional mesh is free-standing and recyclable, indicating the outstanding practicability of water sewage disposal. In consideration of the superiority of low-cost materials, simple method, visible-light response, ultrahigh purification efficiency and reusability, the as-prepared meshes are promising in the field of multi-functional water purification.