Janus Membranes with Opposing Surface Wettability Enabling Oil-to-Water and Water-to-Oil Emulsification

Abstract

A Janus membrane with opposing wettability was first reported with both function of water-to-oil and oil-to-water emulsification. This membrane is conveniently fabricated by single-surface deposition of polydopamine/polyethylenimine (PDA/PEI). The asymmetric wettability can also reduce the transmembrane resistance during the process, indicating an economical and promising strategy to prepare various emulsions. This research opens a novel avenue for exploring and understanding the Janus membrane, and provides a perspective to design the asymmetric membrane structures with promoted performance in conventional membrane processes.