Polymerization-induced phase separation for the fabrication of magnetic sponges for oil spill reclamation

Magnetic sponges were fabricated from polymerization-induced phase separation, and their properties for oil spill reclamation were investigated. Magnetic sponges exhibit high selectivity from oil to water because of their high hydrophobicity (with water contact angles of approximately 140 degrees). The interconnected macroporous structures enable equilibrium absorption in a few minutes and provide high absorption capacities, from 9.9 to 20.3 g g(-1). The presence of magnetic nanoparticles helps collect sponges with the use of an external magnetic field when the sponges break into small pieces. Their facile preparation and excellent performance make these magnetic sponges excellent candidates for oil spill reclamation. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.