A superhydrophobic cotton fiber was fabricated by imitating bioadhesion of mussels.
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There is strong interfacial interactions between nonaparticles and fiber surface.
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Superhydrophobic fiber has better oil sorption capacity compared with raw fiber.
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Superhydrophobic fiber has superior duability and recyclability in absorbing oils.
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The as-prepared fiber can be used for the separation of oils on a water surface.