The fabrication of surface functionalized alumina fabric composite membranes using hydrophilic cysteic acid surface stabilized alumina nanoparticles (alumoxanes) have been investigated. Contact angle measurements for a range of carboxylic acids functionalized onto alumina coated silicon wafers was investigated to determine the functionalization that results in the most hydrophilic surface. Highly porous Nomex (R) fabric was utilized as a membrane support for an alumoxane nanoparticle derived membrane filter. The flux differentiation of heavy hydrocarbons from water, and the separation of oil/water emulsions were studied. Coating techniques utilizing pH control were investigated. Retention coefficients and flux values indicate that surface chemistry of the fabric may be altered by coating with chemically functionalized alumina nanoparticles to provide selective flow of water versus hydrocarbons. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.