Recent progress in the development of porous polymeric materials for oil ad/absorption application

Abstract

Porous polymer materials, including polymer foams and melt-blown fibers, have nano or micro-size pores and a large specific surface area that endows them with great potential as engineered oil ad/absorption materials. This review provides an overview of the recent developments in the processing of polymer foams and melt-blown fiber-based porous polymeric materials for oil absorption properties. Detailed processing and preparation methods of polymer foams utilized in oil absorption are scrutinized, along with the recent peer-reviewed published research on the development of new polymer foams, such as nanocomposite foams and biodegradable foams. Critical reviews are also conducted on the modification methods, such as employment of surfactants, coating, plasma treatment, and chemical grafting. In addition, the recent progress in the processing of melt-blown fibers and the potential applications for oil absorption are discussed. A comparative analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of porous polymer materials between polymer foams and melt-blown fibers is presented. Lastly, the potential for developing melt-blown non-woven fibers as a viable alternative for oil absorption materials is explored.