MULTI-LAYERED MEMBRANE FOR SEPARATING OIL FROM WATER

A multi-layered membrane (100) for separating oil from water includes a first layer (110) having a first plurality of pores and a second layer (120) having a second plurality of pores. The first layer (110) can be on the second layer (120). The second plurality of pores can be larger than the first plurality of pores. The first layer (110) can include a hydrophilic and oleophobic surface. For example, the first layer (110) can include a hydrophilic and oleophobic coating. The coating can be formed from a polymeric and/or inorganic material. The first layer (110) can separate free and/or emulsified oil from the water in the mixture. The multi-layered membrane (100) retains the oil while permitting water to pass therethrough.