Characterization of Hydrophobic and Oleophilic Properties of Paraffin Immersed Polyurethane Sponge by Using Contact Angle Method

In this study, a simple and low cost wax-infused sponge was fabricated from home ready appliances. The wax-infused sponge was fabricated by immersing cleaned and dried polyurethane sponge into liquefied paraffin wax then let solidified at room temperature. The properties of hydrophobicity and oleophilicity were measured and tested by using the contact angle method. The water contact angle measurement on the surface of the wax-infused sponge showed a higher reading (> 90°) than on untreated polyurethane sponge. Meanwhile, the cooking oil contact angle reading on wax-infused sponge was found immeasurable as the oil droplet instantaneously absorbed into the porous structure of the wax-infused sponge which showed excellent oil absorbing ability. Additionally, the water and cooking oil contact angle measurement significantly showed that the wax-infused sponge material exhibits both properties of hydrophobic (water repelling) and oleophilic (oil absorbing) properties at the same time.