Abstract: A mass of net-like material of oleophilic, hydrophobic netting material is formed from strips of netting secured into a loose mass. Oil contacting the mass is sorbed by the strands and tends to bridge the openings in the net-like material to increase the short term oil pick up capacity.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for removing a first immiscible liquid from a liquid mixture comprising at least two immiscible liquids. A material preferentially sorptive of the first immiscible liquid and capable of sorbing the first immiscible liquid therein and therealong is positioned as a siphon with a first or intake end contacting the first immiscible liquid and a second or discharge end placed below at least the first immiscible liquid level, and outside of the liquid mixture. The first immiscible liquid is sorbed by the material and rises therein and/or along. The first immiscible liquid is removed or "siphoned" from the mixture and discharged outside thereof when sorbing has progressed sufficiently to prime the material, which removes or "siphons" the first immiscible liquid out of the mixture. The material may also be primed independently by saturating the sorbent material. The invention is especially suitable for the removal of oil from an aqueous mixture.