Green synthesis of superhydrophobic cotton filters using Pistacia atlantica gum for efficient oil and water separation

In this study, a novel hydrophobic polysulfide (NPS) reagent was synthesized using Pistacia atlantica gum and sulfur powder under hydrothermal conditions. Boehmite (γ-AlOOH) functionalized with curcumin (BCur) and TiO₂ nanoparticles were coated with the NPS reagent. Subsequently, cotton fabrics were dip-coated separately with NPS, NPS-BCur, and NPS-TiO₂, resulting in the fabrication of superhydrophobic filters with water contact angles (WCA) exceeding 150°. The reagents and coated fabrics were thoroughly characterized using FT-IR, XRD, TGA, SEM, X-ray mapping, and WCA measurements. The filters demonstrated exceptional performance in separating oil-water mixtures, achieving separation efficiencies of 91-98.6%. Even after 20 recycling cycles, negligible changes were observed in WCA and separation efficiency. The use of natural materials, eco-friendly synthesis, high durability, and outstanding separation performance underscore the sustainability and practicality of these superhydrophobic cotton fabrics.