Three-dimensional biomimetic superhydrophobic nickel sponge without chemical modifications for efficient oil/water separation

We prepared a 3D porous metallic nickel metallic sponge using the hydrothermal reduction method. The large number of nano-spines distributed on the surface of single nickel fibers makes them superhydrophobic without additional chemical modifications. Nickel sponge can be magnetically propelled for in situ removal of oil contaminants.