Micro-arc oxidation enhances the wear resistance and corrosion resistance of oil–water separating mesh

In this study, ceramic coatings were prepared on the surface of Al mesh using the micro-arc oxidation (MAO) method. Tribological tests and salt spray tests were employed to investigate the effect of MAO coating on the wear resistance and corrosion resistance of Al mesh. The results show that the internal dense layer of MAO coating has a protective effect on the salt spray corrosion and mass loss of Al mesh substrate at high temperature, and MAO can effectively improve the wear resistance of the aluminum mesh substrate. The prepared MAO Al mesh was treated with oil heating, and the surfaces maintain oleophilic and hydrophobic properties, which can be applied for oil–water separation. Compared with conventional oil–water separation, this method has a simple preparation process, low cost, and excellent performance. All these features make the MAO Al mesh become an ideal candidate for oil–water mixtures separation. It can have wide application prospects in oil spill cleanup, wastewater treatment, and water purification.